FIAT Bravo and Brava - Removing Track Rod Ends From 1997 Fiat Bravo

Honest John Back Room » Technical matters
View Threaded
Thu 17 Feb 2011 22:39
FIAT Bravo and Brava - Removing Track Rod Ends From 1997 Fiat Bravo - squibsquib

I am going to replace the track Rod Ends on my 1997 Fiat Bravo and attempt it myself. I just want to know if this is possible without the aid of using heat. In the past heat had to be used when adjusting my wheel alignment in some previous cars. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Fri 18 Feb 2011 07:44
FIAT Bravo and Brava - Removing Track Rod Ends From 1997 Fiat Bravo - dadbif
Spray the ball joint retaining nut and the locknut on the arm with WD40 the night before you commence work, use a balljoint splitter, you can hire one cheaply, unscrew the nut to above the end of the thread before using the splitter, avoids damage to the thread if you want to reuse the joint, and stops the splitter slipping off the joint when compressing the splitter. Alternatively hold a lump hammer against one side of the joint and t*** it (hit it hard) from the other side, this will squeeze the joint out of the taper. Remember, a man did it up so another can undo it.
Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Fri 18 Feb 2011 08:34
FIAT Bravo and Brava - Removing Track Rod Ends From 1997 Fiat Bravo - jc2

The screw type splitters are better than the wedge type.

Reply | Report as offensive | Link

Looking for a garage you can trust? Honest John's Good Garage Guide has thousands of reader recommended garages, plus how-to guides and tips on servicing.

The Good Garage Guide

If you cover no more than 100 miles per day and have easy access to a charging point at home or work, then an EV is ideal for you.

Is an electric car right for me?