inner tie rod end size

[cdt785]

Hi. I need to replace the inner tie rod end on my 2002 explorer sport. does anyone know what size tool I need for the tie rod end? Is it 1 5/16? Thanks in advance.

 

[RomeovilleIL]

Offhand don't recall the exact size. There are specialized tie rod tools that come with 3 or 4 different sized adaptors. They slide over the inner ends after you have removed the outer, nuts, and boot. Yes they work, but are a pain to use.

Frankly the best tool on our explorers is a 2 inch adjustable crescent wrench. Turn the steering all the way to the side you want to remove. Once the boot is pushed out of the way, both sides are accessible from below. The drivers side is a little tight - you can only get about a 1/4 turn. That's plenty, once it's loose you can turn it out by hand. Passenger side you have room to turn 180 degrees.

BTW - Make sure you break the outer jam nut loose before you disconnect the inner or outer end.

 

[96eb96]

If you are near advance auto they rent a nice truck inner tie rod set set for free....

 

[cdt785]

Thank you much for the info guys.