How to Replace Tie Rods 06-12 Dodge Ram 1500

Difficulty: Advanced · About 40 min · Dodge Ram

Replace the outer tie rod on a 2006-2012 Dodge Ram 1500.

Steps

1. Remove the wheel

   Loosen the 22mm lug nuts with the truck on the ground, then raise and support it and pull the wheel.

2. Remove the old outer tie rod

   Loosen the 24mm nut joining it to the inner tie rod with an adjustable wrench, remove the 22mm nut from the outer tie rod end, strike the knuckle with a hammer to free it, pull it out, then twist it off by hand.

3. Install the new outer tie rod

   Thread it onto the inner tie rod, push it into the knuckle, fasten the 22mm castle nut and torque it to about 45 ft-lb plus an additional 90-degree turn, fit a new cotter pin and bend it over, then tighten the 24mm locking nut against the inner tie rod.

4. Reinstall the wheel

   Torque the lug nuts to about 135 ft-lb in a crossing pattern.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.