Track Rod End Removal

[pipknight]

Hi All
im trying to replace my track rod ends on my Gen 1 997 c2s, and having removed the ball joint, and is free from the carrier, I cannot turn the arm from the steering rack !!! Any thoughts please ?
phil
?

 

[Lancerlot]

Clamp the tie rod to prevent it rotating then back off the locknut on the inner section. You may need to clamp the threaded end of the steering rack with care (use a padded Mole wrench) back off the tie road to ensure it's loose, but before removing it, reposition it to it's original position, then screw the locknut back up by hand and leave it there as this will act as your datum when fitting the new rod.
Regards,

Clive

 

[pipknight]

Hi Clive
i had infact done just that, the nut is backed off, but the actual rod will not unscrew from the steering rack. It appears to be seized. What now: what about some heat maybe?
phil

 

[Lancerlot]

If you're unable to hold the rack end effectively to unscrew the rod, then you'll need to be a bit more resourceful. Try soaking the joint overnight in penetrating oil. Certainly try some heat if that fails - maybe hot air first, then blowtorch or oxyacetylene.
As a last resort you may need to use a junior hacksaw to carefully release the threaded sleeve section. Once removed, coat the threads with anti-seize compound to facilitate removal of the new rod next time.
Regards,

Clive

 

[Timbo2]

As has been suggested some heat should do the trick, or carefully cut along the track rod with a cutting disc, there should be some flats somewhere along the rod where you can attach a spanner and then a tube (or stillsons) on the track rod to give extra leverage.