Audi Workshop Service and Repair Manuals

Removing and installing track rods Special tools and workshop equipment required

t  Open-end spanner attachment -V.A.G 1923- t  Torque wrench -V.A.G 1332- Left and right track rods are identical. They can be removed and installed with the steering box in the vehicle. Removing –  Remove front wheel.

–  Remove hexagon bolt -3- and detach bolt connection -4-.   Note Do not attempt to enlarge slots in wheel bearing housing using a chisel or similar. –  Pull or press track rod downwards out of steering arm.   Note

t  Do not apply a chisel or similar tool between steering arm -1- and seal -2- on track rod ball joint when pressing out track rod, otherwise the seal can be damaged. t  When pressing track rod out of steering arm, apply pressure only to end of track rod ball joint, or knock out end of joint using a wooden or rubber mallet. –  Take out cover for track rod.

–  Open hose clips -arrows- (spring-type clip and clip with lug fastener) on rubber boot. –  Pull boot outwards as far as possible.

–  Unscrew track rod using open-end spanner attachment -V.A.G 1923-. Installing –  Screw in and tighten track rod → Item. –  When fitting the rubber boot, make sure that:  -  the smaller diameter of the rubber boot clips into the groove on the track rod  -  the boot is not twisted. –  Renew hose clips (spring-type clip and clip with lug fastener). –  Install cover for track rod. –  Align track rod so that pin of track rod ball joint is in installation position. –  Insert track rod as far as it will go in steering arm.   Note

Only fit the track rod into the steering arm -1- by hand; do not apply pressure to seal -2- on track rod joint.

–  Attach bolt connection -4- and tighten nut → Item. –  Install and tighten bolt -3- → Item. –  Fit and secure wheel → Wheels and Tyres Guide. –  Check and adjust wheel alignment → Chapter. Wheel alignment must always be checked and adjusted if necessary using VW/Audi-approved equipment.