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how can i change the track rod on my ford ka?

my ford ka has failed an mot on the ball joint on the tracking arm that is attaches to the steering rack. i have the part and the ball joint has a thread on the end. does this thread just screw into the rack if so what locks the thread and stops it unscrewing itself
mike, December 2007
If it is the track rod end that you have(about 4" long with a tapered pin on the end) look at the one on the car it may have a nut at the long end of it on the rod,slacken the nut 1/4 of a turn then unscrew track rod holding the rod still with a pair of mole grips(after splitting it from the joint)screw on new track rod end till it touches the nut fit the tapered pin in the hole and tighten the nut back to lock it.The lock nut position is very important as it determines your tracking,you should have tracking done by garage afterwards to prevent poor tyre wear.You may need a splitter to get the track rod end free.

Rich, December 2007
link Click here to see other fixes for Ford Ka.