Track rods ends & ball joints

[James Clio 16v]

I will be fitting new track rod ends & ball joints to my 16v this weekend.

Is it fairly easy to do?

Thanks

James

 

[KDF]

buy a ball splitter and make your life easier.

 

[James Clio 16v]

Thanks for the reply _KDF, already got one.

Any pitfalls I should look out for?

Thanks

James

 

[Alex M]

might have problem with siezed track rod ends (also get right ends, as there are two kinds male and female), try a little heat on them if they are not moving), ball joints are fairly easy although two problems might present themselves. Pinch bolt that holds ball joint to hub carrier often shears when you go to slacken it (dont worry you get new bolt with your new joints) but does mean you might have to drift bolt out with a punch or something. Also when you reassembly them the wishbone is very springy up the way, which makes it awkward to get it all back together. If this happens, undo the anti roll bar outer links from wishbone, so you are able to keep wishbone out the way till you reassemble hub to ball joint.

Also remember to get your wheel alignment done afterward. New ball joints make a world of difference youll be delighted, less clonking and a tighter feel to car

 

[James Clio 16v]

Alex,

Thanks for your reply, most helpful. I already have the parts, the track rod ends are male on my car.

Im hoping that this will tighten up my vague, light steering. If not it means a new rack!

Thanks

James

 

[Alex M]

James, check track rod inner joints as these often are worn and it feels like the rack when it aint always