Trouble removing tie rods from ball

[nkaminar]

If I understand correctly, you have the outer threaded keeper removed along with any socket for the ball. But the inner spring is pushing the ball up against the hole and preventing it from coming out. Correct?

Here is another idea. Install the threaded keeper to push on the ball and allow it to drop out of the hole. If the threaded keeper does not push far enough, turn the socket around so that the flat part is against the ball.

 

[katy]

The item pictured in post #20 is called a "drag link socket", they come in various sizes.

 

[J.R. Aiello]

Hey all,

Sorry I haven't updated this. I DID get it off finally. Thanks to all of you for the suggestions and encouragement. I was able to the whole rod and spindles off by removing the kingpins. I thought it was going to be very difficult, but they slid right out. Rotating the steering arm back in line with the tie rod, I lifted until it popped out. It WAS the inner cup and spring holding it in. The grease on all the parts, even inside the tie rod, was still smooth and slick. Just that spring and cup pressure and not being able to pry upwards was stopping me.

I got the springs out, but one side took a lot of heat and prying. The old side just slid out. Surprisingly, the spring perches were just as easy coming out. I was certain from everything I'd read that a shop would have to do that.

Many thanks again!

J.R.