Tie Rod Adjustment

Tie Rod Sleeves: Tie rod sleeves are commonly used to adjust the toe on parallelogram-type steering systems. They are located between the inner and outer tie rod ends. Apply a little penetrating oil to the clamps and the adjusting sleeve before loosening. Use a sleeve rotating tool to rotate the sleeve without damage. One tie rod has left-hand threads, while the other has right-hand threads. Turning the sleeve will either lengthen or shorten the tie rod. Install the clamps facing away from contact with the oil pan, frame, or anything on the vehicle's underside.

Inner Tie Rod: The inner tie rod is rotated to adjust the toe on most rack and pinion systems. Loosen the tie rod lock nut and the clamp holding the bellows boot to the tie rod. Rotate the inner tie rod to adjust the toe. Split the total toe between the two sides. A few rack and pinion systems incorporate a sleeve with a hex bolt that may be rotated to adjust the toe, similar to a tie rod sleeve.