Explorer 2WD V6-245 4.0L SOHC VIN E EFI (1997)
Tie Rod End: Service and Repair
Outer Tie Rod End
REMOVAL
1. Loosen the lug nuts.
(1) Remove the center cap from the front wheel and tire assemblies.
(2) With the weight of the vehicle on the tires, loosen, but do not remove, the front wheel lug nuts.
WARNING: THE ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM MUST BE SHUT OFF PRIOR TO HOISTING,
JACKING OR TOWING AN AIR SUSPENSION VEHICLE. THIS CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED BY TURNING OFF THE AIR
SUSPENSION SWITCH LOCATED IN THE REAR JACK STORAGE AREA. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN
UNEXPECTED INFLATION OR DEFLATION OF THE AIR SPRINGS WHICH MAY RESULT IN SHIFTING OF THE VEHICLE
DURING THESE OPERATIONS.
CAUTION: Do not use heat to loosen a seized lug nut. Heat can damage the wheel and the wheel bearings.
2. Raise and support the vehicle.
3. Remove the front wheel and tire assemblies.
(1) Remove the lug nuts.
(2) Remove the front wheel and tire assemblies.
4. Loosen the jam nuts.
5. Disconnect the tie rod ends.
(1) Remove and discard the cotter pins.
(2) Remove the castellated nuts.
(3) Use an appropriate tool to separate the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
