Audi Workshop Service and Repair Manuals

Removing and installing track rod ball joint Two different versions of track rod ball joint were used at the start of production. The length of the pin thread is not the same on the two different versions. For correct version refer to → Electronic parts catalogue. When renewing the track rod ball joint, make sure that the thread of the pin on the track rod ball joint is long enough (the thread should project about 5 mm beyond the steering arm). If this is not the case, a new track rod ball joint with a longer pin thread must be fitted; for correct version refer to → Electronic parts catalogue. Special tools and workshop equipment required

t  Torque wrench -V.A.G 1331-

t  Torque wrench -V.A.G 1332-

t  Ball joint puller -T40010 A-

t  Ring spanner insert -V.A.G 1332/7-

t  or ring spanner insert -V.A.G 1332/10- Removing –  Raise vehicle on lifting platform. –  Remove wheel.

–  Measure and note down dimension -a- between track rod ball joint -2- and track rod -1- on both sides. Dimension -a- should be the same on both sides after installation. –  If necessary, shorten the „longer“ track rod ball joint (by screwing it further into the track rod).

–  Unscrew nut -1- on joint pin -2- of track rod ball joint until it is flush with end of thread. Counterhold if necessary when loosening. Leave nut screwed on a few turns to protect threads on joint pin.

–  Press track rod ball joint off wheel bearing housing using ball joint puller -T40010 A-. Then remove nut.   Note Make sure the two lever arms of the puller are parallel when maximum force is exerted; adjust as necessary.

–  Loosen nut -2- but do not remove (counterhold track rod ball joint -3-). –  Unscrew track rod ball joint -3-. Installing Installation is carried out in the reverse sequence. Note the following points: Tightening torques → Chapter „Servicing power steering box“ Tightening torques → Chapter „Exploded view of power steering box“

–  Screw track rod ball joint -2- onto track rod -1- until distance -a- measured on removal is obtained. –  Align track rod so that pin of track rod ball joint -2- is in installation position. –  Insert track rod ball joint into wheel bearing housing as far as the stop.

–  Tighten nut -1-. Counterhold if necessary when tightening.

–  Tighten nut -2-. –  Fit and secure wheel → Wheels and tyres; Rep. gr.44. –  Wheel alignment must be checked and adjusted, see chart → Chapter.