Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

I have been down there and just can't pinpoint it. The first couple of
times I thought it was the balljoint at the top of the (knuckle? Ujoint?) at
the end of the axle behind the wheel. That one leaks grease if you squirt
even a little in it. Doesn't look too easy to replace... but, man, I HATE
to take it to a shop when I don't know what the problem is. Leaves me wide
open to be ripped off -- and it might be something I could do myself!

I had someone else get under there while I turned the wheel, and that's when
they said tie rod end. Either way, the sound seems to be coming from the
passenger side, but you can hear it loud and clear while in the driver's
seat.

I will say that my pump has been a bit noisy lately. Has plenty of fluid
and isn't leaking. Just been a bit... whinier.. than normal. Nothing
obnoxious.


Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

I snagged this pic from another site (sorry if the owner reads this -- just
trying to post a quick pic).

The top one seems to be making the noise, and the dust boot is shot. Any
grease at all and it comes right back out. Seems collapsed, actually.

www.baileyscorner.com/images/balljoints.jpg

Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

I snagged this pic from another site (sorry if the owner reads this -- just
trying to post a quick pic).

The top one seems to be making the noise, and the dust boot is shot. Any
grease at all and it comes right back out. Seems collapsed, actually.

www.baileyscorner.com/images/balljoints.jpg

Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

I snagged this pic from another site (sorry if the owner reads this -- just
trying to post a quick pic).

The top one seems to be making the noise, and the dust boot is shot. Any
grease at all and it comes right back out. Seems collapsed, actually.

www.baileyscorner.com/images/balljoints.jpg

Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

BTW -- just found a pic of the ujoints. Can't imagine those are making the
noise...

Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

BTW -- just found a pic of the ujoints. Can't imagine those are making the
noise...

Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

BTW -- just found a pic of the ujoints. Can't imagine those are making the
noise...

Eric
"Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> the wheel...
>
> Mike
>
> Eric wrote:
>>
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>>
>> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
>> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
>> power
>> assist!)
>>
>> Eric
>>
>> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
>> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
>> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
>> > buy
>> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
>> >
>> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
>> > to
>> > side.
>> >
>> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
>> > rocking the steering wheel?
>> >
>> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
>> >
>> > Mike
>> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
>> >
>> > Eric wrote:
>> >>
>> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
>> >> point I
>> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
>> >> end
>> >> could hear the grinding.
>> >>
>> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
>> >> was
>> >> the
>> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
>> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
>> >> me,
>> >> I'd
>> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
>> >>
>> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
>> >> cake.
>> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
>> >> out
>> >> of
>> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
>> >> and
>> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
>> >> rod.
>> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
>> >> making
>> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
>> >> wonder
>> >> if
>> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
>> >> the
>> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
>> >> shoot
>> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
>> >>
>> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
>> >> that?
>> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
>> >> leverage.
>> >>
>> >> Eric
>> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

Ok, so if you stand up front and look at the front wheels, do either one
of them tilt in or out at the top or bottom?

If so, you could have a dead ball joint. You will need to jack the
weight off the wheel and pry with a bar to see if you can get any
movement in it.

Mike

Eric wrote:
>
> BTW -- just found a pic of the ujoints. Can't imagine those are making the
> noise...
>
> Eric
> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
> news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> > Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> > axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> > would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> > and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> > guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> > the wheel...
> >
> > Mike
> >
> > Eric wrote:
> >>
> >> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
> >> > rocking the steering wheel?
> >>
> >> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
> >> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
> >> power
> >> assist!)
> >>
> >> Eric
> >>
> >> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
> >> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
> >> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
> >> > buy
> >> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
> >> >
> >> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
> >> > to
> >> > side.
> >> >
> >> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
> >> > rocking the steering wheel?
> >> >
> >> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
> >> >
> >> > Mike
> >> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
> >> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
> >> >
> >> > Eric wrote:
> >> >>
> >> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
> >> >> point I
> >> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
> >> >> end
> >> >> could hear the grinding.
> >> >>
> >> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
> >> >> was
> >> >> the
> >> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
> >> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
> >> >> me,
> >> >> I'd
> >> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
> >> >>
> >> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
> >> >> cake.
> >> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
> >> >> out
> >> >> of
> >> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
> >> >> and
> >> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
> >> >> rod.
> >> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
> >> >> making
> >> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
> >> >> wonder
> >> >> if
> >> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
> >> >> the
> >> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
> >> >> shoot
> >> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
> >> >>
> >> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
> >> >> that?
> >> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
> >> >> leverage.
> >> >>
> >> >> Eric
> >> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

Ok, so if you stand up front and look at the front wheels, do either one
of them tilt in or out at the top or bottom?

If so, you could have a dead ball joint. You will need to jack the
weight off the wheel and pry with a bar to see if you can get any
movement in it.

Mike

Eric wrote:
>
> BTW -- just found a pic of the ujoints. Can't imagine those are making the
> noise...
>
> Eric
> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
> news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> > Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> > axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> > would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> > and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> > guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> > the wheel...
> >
> > Mike
> >
> > Eric wrote:
> >>
> >> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
> >> > rocking the steering wheel?
> >>
> >> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
> >> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
> >> power
> >> assist!)
> >>
> >> Eric
> >>
> >> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
> >> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
> >> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
> >> > buy
> >> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
> >> >
> >> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
> >> > to
> >> > side.
> >> >
> >> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
> >> > rocking the steering wheel?
> >> >
> >> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
> >> >
> >> > Mike
> >> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
> >> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
> >> >
> >> > Eric wrote:
> >> >>
> >> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
> >> >> point I
> >> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
> >> >> end
> >> >> could hear the grinding.
> >> >>
> >> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
> >> >> was
> >> >> the
> >> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
> >> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
> >> >> me,
> >> >> I'd
> >> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
> >> >>
> >> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
> >> >> cake.
> >> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
> >> >> out
> >> >> of
> >> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
> >> >> and
> >> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
> >> >> rod.
> >> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
> >> >> making
> >> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
> >> >> wonder
> >> >> if
> >> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
> >> >> the
> >> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
> >> >> shoot
> >> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
> >> >>
> >> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
> >> >> that?
> >> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
> >> >> leverage.
> >> >>
> >> >> Eric
> >> >> 99 TJ SE

Re: How do I get this tie rod end off?
 

Ok, so if you stand up front and look at the front wheels, do either one
of them tilt in or out at the top or bottom?

If so, you could have a dead ball joint. You will need to jack the
weight off the wheel and pry with a bar to see if you can get any
movement in it.

Mike

Eric wrote:
>
> BTW -- just found a pic of the ujoints. Can't imagine those are making the
> noise...
>
> Eric
> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
> news:4250A700.D9794112@sympatico.ca...
> > Well besides the pump itself there are u-joints at the ends of the front
> > axles right behind the wheel. To make a noise when not spinning they
> > would have to be seriously seized. You can cut the wheels to the side
> > and inspect them. If they are flopping or show tons of rust... Well I
> > guess you could just get down there and listen while someone else turns
> > the wheel...
> >
> > Mike
> >
> > Eric wrote:
> >>
> >> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
> >> > rocking the steering wheel?
> >>
> >> YES!! That's the problem!! More obvious when the motor is running, as I
> >> can turn the wheel further (33x12.50 MTs don't turn to easily without
> >> power
> >> assist!)
> >>
> >> Eric
> >>
> >> "Mike Romain" <romainm@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
> >> news:424FF944.6CDFC0E7@sympatico.ca...
> >> > On the matter of the drag link, it does not come apart. You have to
> >> > buy
> >> > the whole $120.00 or so part.
> >> >
> >> > They don't 'grind' when bad, the steering wheel just flops loose side
> >> > to
> >> > side.
> >> >
> >> > You can make a grinding noise with the engine off and stopped and
> >> > rocking the steering wheel?
> >> >
> >> > Have you check the power steering fluid?
> >> >
> >> > Mike
> >> > 86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
> >> > 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
> >> >
> >> > Eric wrote:
> >> >>
> >> >> My TJ's been making a lot of noises when steering lately. To the
> >> >> point I
> >> >> could hold my cell phone out the window and the person on the other
> >> >> end
> >> >> could hear the grinding.
> >> >>
> >> >> After much checking, it seemed that the tie rod end at the drag link
> >> >> was
> >> >> the
> >> >> culprit. To be honest, I can't seem to finger it, but a buddy of mine
> >> >> crawled under there and swore that was the one. If it were left to
> >> >> me,
> >> >> I'd
> >> >> probably have to replace all of the ones on the passenger side.
> >> >>
> >> >> Anyhow, getting it out of the drag link just took a minute. Piece of
> >> >> cake.
> >> >> Loosened the retainer. Again, easy stuff. The problem is getting it
> >> >> out
> >> >> of
> >> >> the tie rod. I've got a pretty long pipe-wrench on the tie rod end
> >> >> and
> >> >> can't get it to come loose. Seems like the end is stuck in the tie
> >> >> rod.
> >> >> After playing around with the end itself, I just can't see how that's
> >> >> making
> >> >> the noise, though. I put it back (since I can't get it out!) and
> >> >> wonder
> >> >> if
> >> >> the noise isn't another ball joint. I think it could be the joint at
> >> >> the
> >> >> top of the knuckle (the part the caliper attaches to). I know if you
> >> >> shoot
> >> >> grease into that zerk it comes right out of the dust boot.
> >> >>
> >> >> Any thoughts? How do you get a tie rod end out when it's stuck like
> >> >> that?
> >> >> Honestly, this could be a lack-of-muscle issue, but I had good
> >> >> leverage.
> >> >>
> >> >> Eric
> >> >> 99 TJ SE