M38A1 steering tie rod removal

STXM38A1 · Post by **STXM38A1** » Fri Nov 26, 2010 10:43 am

TM 9-8014 says to use a "suitable" puller to separate the two tie rods (ends) from each other, the steering knuckles, & the steering bellcrank.

What size & style of puller would be the best "suitable" puller?

Hope everybody had a great Thanksgiving!

Thanks,
Warren

Post by **wesk** » Fri Nov 26, 2010 10:58 am

There are several small width straight arm pullers that work. Usually you don't need one. Usually all I do is loosen the nut far enough to protect the threads. Then with a 2 Lb hand drilling hammer I smack the side of the socket with a sharp crack. Then I wrap the top of the nut and she should drop right out. Then remove the nut and it falls out. If she is stubborn then out comes the Tie Rod End Puller below.

http://www.amazon.com/OTC-Tools-OTC6296 ... B000KITTYU

STXM38A1 · Post by **STXM38A1** » Thu Dec 30, 2010 11:56 pm

Progress! I had to look up a "drilling hammer" since I didn't know what that was. Picked up a 2.5 lb one on sale at HF for $4. I've been soaking with PB Blaster and smacking with the "DH" once or twice a week. I've managed to free 3 of the 4 tie rod ends. Only the connection that joins the two tie rods in the middle is left to free. Wes, thanks for the advice.