How to Replace Inner Tie Rod 1997-2005 Lexus GS300

1. step 1 :Removing the Inner Tie Rod 0:20

   • Raise and support the vehicle
   • Remove the wheel with a 21mm socket
   • Loosen the jam nut with large pliers or a wrench
   • Remove the ball joint cotter pin
   • Remove the 17 mm ball joint castle nut and replace it on the last several threads
   • Hammer the ball joint mounting position on the knuckle to free up the ball joint
   • Remove the castle nut and ball joint
   • Unscrew the outer tie rod, counting how many full turns it takes to remove it
   • Write down the count of the turns
   • Remove the jam nut using pliers on the inner tie rod for stable leverage
   • Remove the inner tie rod boot clamps
   • Twist and slide off the inner tie rod boot
   • Push back the folded over locking washer securing the inner tie rod end using a hammer and pry bar
   • Remove the inner tie rod using large pliers or an inner tie rod removal tool

2. step 2 :Installing the Inner Tie Rod 11:42

   • Apply included grease to the inner tie rod joint and work it around
   • Install the lock washer with the tabs fitting into the slots on the steering rack
   • Install the Inner tie rod and tighten it securely
   • Fold the edges of the lock washer over the flat edges of the inner tie rod with a hammer
   • Apply some grease to the area of the inner tie rod where the narrow end of the tie rod boot will rest
   • Remove and set aside the jam nut
   • Install the inner tie rod boot
   • Replace the boot clamps, or use wire tie if either clamp was damaged
   • Apply copper anti-seize grease to the inner tie rod threads
   • Replace the jam nut
   • Replace the outer tie rod and thread it the same number of turns as noted when removing it
   • Install the ball joint into the knuckle
   • Hand tighten the ball joint castle nut
   • Tighten the tie rod jam nut
   • Tighten the ball joint castle nut
   • Torque the castle nut to 64 ft-lb if able
   • Replace the ball joint cotter pin
   • Replace the wheel and hand tighten lug nuts
   • Lower the vehicle
   • Torque the 21 mm lug nuts in a star pattern to 76 ft-lb

Tools needed

• Socket Extensions

  Torque Wrench

  Hammer

  Pry Bar

  17mm Socket

  Jack Stands

  21mm Socket

  Inner Tie Rod Removal Tool

  Flat Blade Screwdriver

  Large Locking Pliers

  Copper Anti-Seize

  Floor Jack

  Needle nose pliers

  1/2 Inch Breaker Bar