# Tie rod, replace

Remove wheel |
Loosen 13mm nut on locking clamp of tie rod. |
Remove 17mm nut from tie rod end ball joint and knock the joint out of the strut |
NOTE: Never hit the threaded rod of a ball joint to remove it. Hitting the side of the ball joint, or the component it goes through, while applying pressure against the control arm, is enough to knock it loose. Hitting the threaded rod will both damage the threads, and risk spreading the rod to the point that it will no longer fit through the hole it needs to come through. It is also much less effective than hitting the mount.
If replacing outer tie rod end only, unscrew outer tie rod end from inner tie rod end.
If replacing inner, or complete assembly remove clamps from both ends of rack boot
Push boot to the outer end of the tie rod assembly.
Bend up tab on locking washer and unscrew inner tie rod from rack

### Installation

Replace locking washer for inner tie rod and ensure locating tab is facing rack and inserted into slot in rack housing.
Bend locking washer over , to secure the tie rod, with a large pair of pliers. Do not use a hammer as damage to rack may result.

Replace nut for outer tie rod

Replace boot if damaged.

### Torques

Tie rod nuts | 36.5 ± 3.5 Nm ( 26 ± 3 ft lbs.)
Tie rod to rack | 75 Nm (54 ft lbs.)

E30 M3 Repair Manual V2.7. Copyright ©1999-2001 Koala Motorsport & Brett Anderson