Inner Track rod replacement

[Joe R26]

I've got my MOT next week and I've got a feeling the inner track rods are shot.

Would a 32mm crows foot spanner do the job of removing the inner track rods?. I know Renault have a special tool but I can't warrant buying it for a one off job.

I've heard Freds design of welding a 32mm spanner head to an extension bar but I wondered if the crows foot spanner would work?

http://www.my-tool-shed.co.uk/p2185...gle&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=allprods

 

[Fred@BTM]

yes, but you'll have to "thin it down" with a grinder as the flats are very skinny, i'll have to double check but i'm 99% sure its 32mm

 

[Joe R26]

Ok thanks Fred. From searching previous threads It looks like it is 32mm but if you or anyone else could confirm this it would be great help.

 

[Joe R26]

Is it vital to hold the other part of the rack still whilst undoing the track rods to reduce strain on the pinion? If do what do you use?

 

[Fred@BTM]

come again?

 

[mr.pink87]

Renault manuals state that you need to fix the part of the rack where the rod attaches when loosening/fastening the rod/joint. I didn't do that and haven't had problems yet.

 

[Joe R26]

come again?

As above. The Haynes manual states you have to hold the toothed part that the inner track rod screws on to with something to reduce strain on the rest of the rack whilst undoing/tightening.

Since access is dia I can't really see a way of doing that.

 

[Tony Hunter]

I used a pair of grips,but then I had it out and in a vice,much easier.

 

[Joe R26]

If only it were that easy for me. Oh well I'm sure it'll be fine.

 

[Fred@BTM]

have you seen the rack? you ain't going to bend it unless you are super human LOL!

 

[Joe R26]

Lol just checking Fred. You know what these workshop manuals are like. Mega over cautious!.

Appreciate all the help. Just gotta order the bits and give it a stab.

I take it the boot clips are non re-usable?.

 

[Jacko90]

I dont know if it's any help, but mountain bikes use thin spanners for bottom brackets. Something like this:

http://mpora.com/gear/29525-park-tools-cw6-32mm-headset-15mm-pedal-spanner.html?ok=1

They're only 3mm thick or so and it's cheaper. Hope it helps.

 

[Fred@BTM]

Lol just checking Fred. You know what these workshop manuals are like. Mega over cautious!.

Appreciate all the help. Just gotta order the bits and give it a stab.

I take it the boot clips are non re-usable?.

zip ties reusable? erm

step 1 - remove battery LOL

 

[Joe R26]

Haha. TBH I havent even looked at the rack yet. Presumed they were metal clips.

Ok I'm gonna shutup now and just do it. haha.

Thanks again for all the info.

 

[Fred@BTM]

do i need to post you my tool?

 

[Joe R26]

That would be nice?

 

[Tony Hunter]

You should get zip ties with the new ones anyway.

 

[ozclio03]

i think mine is leaking a lil bit is this why you are replacing yours?