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View Full Version : 2008 focus tie rod replacement


sandy75
May 15, 2012, 06:35 PM
Ive got a 2008 Ford Focus with 60,000 miles. Pretty sure all 4 ties rods are worn, lots of clunking going over bumps and curves. I'm a pretty decent backyard mechanic with proper tools. Acess to a hoist. How hard a job is it to replace all 4? I'd drive it straight to get an alignment when done. We talking an afternoon here? Anything tricky about this vehicle? I've got forks to get them off.

ma0641
May 15, 2012, 07:21 PM
Could be the Cv joints. Check them before starting.

TxGreaseMonkey
May 16, 2012, 06:33 AM
Sway bar end links are notorious for causing what you described. If you decide to replace the outer tie rod ends, use PB Blaster and a cheater bar on your wrench to break loose the jam nut. Hold the outer tie rod end with a large pair of Vise Grips, so you don't damage the inner tie rod ends. Other than that, it's very straight-forward.

sandy75
May 16, 2012, 08:09 AM
Thanks to both of you. ma0641, I'm certain it's not the CV joints. My original post should have said "curbs", not curves. TxGreaseMonkey, thanks for heads up. I'll check those links right away before anything else.

TxGreaseMonkey
May 16, 2012, 08:23 AM
Frequently, suspension noises are due to parts not being torqued to spec; hence, they make noise.