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Home/Cars/Ford/F-150/12th Generation (2009-2014)/how to replace a worn tie rod on Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

how to replace a worn tie rod on Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
579 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Step-by-step guide to replace a worn tie rod on Ford F-150 (2009-2014). Learn symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools, and safety precautions.

Component
Steering
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and secured with wheel chocks before lifting.
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems if necessary.
  • ⚠Allow the vehicle to cool down before working on hot components.

Symptoms

  • •Excessive play in the steering wheel
  • •Uneven tire wear
  • •Steering wheel vibrations
  • •Clunking noise when turning
  • •Vehicle drifting to one side

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the tie rod visually for signs of wear or damage.
  2. 2Check for excessive play by grabbing the tie rod and moving it back and forth.
  3. 3Confirm alignment issues by measuring the angle of the tires relative to the vehicle.
  4. 4Look for any other worn suspension components that may affect the tie rod.
  5. 5Use a torque wrench to check the tightness of the tie rod connections.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, tie rod separator (pickle fork), adjustable wrench, jack and jack stands, wheel chocks.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and secured with wheel chocks before lifting.

2. Lift the Vehicle

  • Place the jack under the front frame and lift the vehicle.
  • Secure it with jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Wheel

  • Use a socket set to remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheel.

4. Disconnect the Tie Rod

  • Use a tie rod separator (pickle fork) to break the tie rod end free from the steering knuckle. Be cautious of any sudden snapping.
  • Use an adjustable wrench to remove the tie rod end nut.

5. Remove the Old Tie Rod

  • Once disconnected, unscrew the tie rod from the steering rack or inner tie rod end.
  • Note the number of turns taken to unscrew it for proper installation of the new part.

6. Install the New Tie Rod

  • Screw in the new tie rod to the steering rack, making sure to replicate the number of turns noted during removal for alignment purposes.
  • Tighten it securely according to the manufacturer specifications (typically around 30-50 ft-lbs, but refer to the service manual).

7. Reconnect the Tie Rod End

  • Position the tie rod end back in the steering knuckle and secure it with the nut.
  • Tighten the nut to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 40-50 ft-lbs).

8. Reinstall the Wheel

  • Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  • Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 100-150 ft-lbs).

9. Final Checks

  • Perform a visual inspection of the installation to ensure everything is secure.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Tie rod separator (pickle fork)
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Wheel chocks

Parts Required

  • New tie rod assembly
  • Tie rod end nut (if not reused)

Additional Information

Component

Steering

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

2 items

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