How to Replace a Tie Rod in an Oldsmobile Alero
Even the comfortable Oldsmobile Alero may need attention when the tie rods become damaged. Fortunately, this is something that's possible for the amateur mechanic to set right. Once you replace the tie rods, you'll feel an immediate improvement. If you have a repair manual for your Alero, you should refer to it to ensure there aren't any unique steps for your particular model, but these instructions should help you get the job done.
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Things You'll Need
- Lug nut wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Wrench or pliers
- Paint or marker
- Pen and paper
- Tie rods
- Torque wrench
Instructions
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1
Purchase tie rods for your Oldsmobile Alero. Make sure they're specific to your vehicle, as they can vary from model year to model year.
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2
Loosen the lug nuts on the front tires with a lug nut wrench, then jack up your car. Once you have it safely supported on jack stands, take off the tires.
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3
Remove the bolt that secures the tie rod to the steering rack with a wrench or pliers, then mark the other end with paint or a marker so you can record the position of the tie rod in the rod adjuster. Remove the bolt with a wrench or pliers.
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4
Unscrew the tie rod with a wrench or pliers, and make sure you write down the number of turns it takes using a pen and paper. Transfer the marks from the old tie rod to the new one with a marker or paint.
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5
Screw on the tie rods, and tighten the bolt to 65 foot pounds using a torque wrench. Put the other end of the tie rod into the steering rack, and tighten that bolt to 65 foot pounds with a torque wrench.
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6
Repeat the steps for the other tie rod, then put back on the wheels. Tighten the lug nuts to 100 foot pounds with a torque wrench. Take your Alero to a shop to have it aligned.
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