Tie Rod: Installation

Position the new steering stop.

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NOTE: Hold the steering gear rack while loosening the inner tie rod. Failure to hold the rack securely could result in steering gear damage.

NOTE: The steering gear rack holding tool must be reversed to install the RH tie rod or damage to the rack and/or special tool may occur.

NOTE: The holding tool can only be used on the LH side of the steering gear.

Using the special tool to hold the rack and an appropriate size crows foot wrench or open end wrench, install the inner tie rod and steering stop. Use Special Service Tool: 204-816 Rack Holding Tool.

Torque: 89 lb.ft (120 Nm)

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NOTE: Install the steering stop using hand force only. Striking the steering stop may cause damage to the stop.

NOTE: An audible click will be heard when the steering stop seats onto the inner tie rod. Make sure that the steering stop is fully seated and cannot be separated by hand.

Install the steering stop onto the inner tie rod using hand force only.
- GT350R and GT500 Models, LH side only.
- All other models, On both sides.
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Apply the specified grease to the steering gear-to-bellows boot mating surface and bellows boot groove on the inner tie-rod.
Material: Motorcraft® Premium Long-Life Grease / XG-1-E1 (ESA-M1C75-B)

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NOTE: LH side shown, RH side similar.
1. NOTE: Make sure the steering gear bellows boot is positioned correctly over the steering gear housing bead and the groove in the inner tie rod.
  
  Install the new steering gear bellows boot.
2. Install the new inner bellows boot clamp. Use the General Equipment: Boot Clamp Pliers
3. Install the new outer bellows boot clamp.
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Thread the tie-rod end jam nut onto the inner tie rod.

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1. NOTE: If equipped.
  
  Position the V-brace and underbody shield and install the 6 V-brace bolts.
  
  Torque: 46 lb.ft (63 Nm)
2. Install the underbody shield bolt.
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NOTE: If equipped.
1. Position the underbody shield and install the 2 rearward underbody shield bolts.
2. Install the 2 remaining underbody shield bolts.
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NOTE: If equipped.

Position the underbody shield and install the bolts.

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NOTE: If equipped.

Position the underbody shield and install the bolts.

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Install the tie rod end. Refer to: Tie Rod End
Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock to assure the steering stops are fully seated.