Section 11-03: Steering Linkage
1996 F-150, F-250, F-350, Bronco and F-Super Duty Workshop Manual
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

Adjusting Sleeve

Replace the ball stud if loose in the steering control ball stud socket (3A754) or the tie rod end (3A131) is bent. Replace the front suspension steering ball stud dust seal (3332) if any nicks, cuts or tears are present. Do not attempt to straighten a bent tie rod end.

Removal

  1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist with the wheels in the straight-ahead position. Refer to Section 00-02.

  1. Remove the nut and cotter pin from the tie rod ball stud at front wheel spindle (3105). Remove the ball stud from the wheel spindle using Tie Rod End Remover TOOL-3290-D or equivalent.

  1. Loosen the nuts on front wheel spindle tie rod adjusting sleeve (3310).

  1. Hold the tie rod adjusting sleeve (3281) and remove the tie rod ball socket from the tie rod adjusting sleeve. Count the number of turns it takes to remove the ball stud from the tie rod adjusting sleeve.

  1. Remove the tie rod adjusting sleeve from the steering tie rod. Count the number of turns it takes to remove the tie rod adjusting sleeve from the steering tie rod assembly.

Installation

  1. Follow removal procedures in reverse order.

  1. Tighten nuts to 40-57 Nm (30-42 lb-ft).

  1. Make sure adjuster clamps are in the correct position.

  1. Check toe-in. Refer to Section 04-00. Check clear vision. Refer to Section 11-00.