How to Repair the Tie Rod in a 1995 Chevy Blazer

Tie rods on a 1995 Chevy Blazer can't be repaired -- only replaced since they are an unserviceable item. Replacement is a reasonably simple process, although installation must duplicate the removal, because of the number of turns required to unthread and re-thread the tie-rod in the tie-rod shaft. Turning the tie-rod end in or out changes the front-end alignment, principally in the toe segment. It is simple to diagnose a tie-rod problem, by raising the tire off the ground and wobbling the tire from side to side by hand. If you find any looseness, the tie-rod end is worn.

Instructions

1

Loosen but do not remove the lug nuts using the lug wrench. Raise the front of the vehicle with the floor jack and place jack stands under the frame. Lower the vehicle so it rests on the stands. Continue removing the lug nuts followed by the wheel.

2

Remove the cotter pin in the tie-rod end using wire cutters. Loosen the lock nut behind and against the tie-rod end using a wrench. Spin the lock nut clockwise away from the tie-rod end. Remove the tie-rod stud nut using a wrench.

3

Insert the tie-rod separator between the tie-rod and the knuckle and hit the tool with a hammer until the tie-rod end stud "pops" out of the knuckle. Install the vice grips on the tie-rod end shaft. Turn the tie-rod end counterclockwise counting every turn so the new tie-rod end can be installed the same number of turns.

4

Install the new tie-rod counting the turns to ensure it is installed the same number of turns. Install the tie-rod end stud into the knuckle, install the nut and tighten with a wrench. Install the cotter pin.

5

Turn the lock nut counterclockwise until it contacts the tie-rod. Tighten the nut against the tie-rod to lock it in place using a wrench. Install the wheel and lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts as much as possible with the lug wrench. Lift the vehicle with the jack, remove the stands and lower the vehicle to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts securely with the lug wrench.