Tie rod wont come loose

[Choptop32]

from the drag link. I've tried using a pickle fork (perhaps a have too large of one, designed for ball joints) and I've tried hammering directly on the end of the threaded stud... to no avail.

any tips?

I've got all new tie rod ends and nice new solid tie rod sleeves to install... just cant get the damn thing off.

[Choptop32]

perhaps a tie rod puller... ahhhh, an opportunity to buy a new tool

[Bears63]

Either you need a much bigger hammer or a tie rod puller. Usually whacking the end of the stud does the trick but not always. I bet you can rent a puller for a day at most parts stores. I would try that next and see where it gets you.

[Choptop32]

I got a tie rod/pitman puller from HF... it was too big.. it just slipped over the bulge in the drag link. Will check at the auto parts store in the morning to see if there is a smaller one to be rented.

[andyh1956]

try this. use two hammers. hold one as backup on the backside of the centerlink where the stud goes through the hole. then hit the front side opposit the backup hammer. what your trying to do is "egg shape" the hole for a split second. you may have to drop the idler down to get swinging room. works every time & dont ruin threads or boots.
andy

[leddzepp]

Did you see this new tool at harbor freight? It is for ball joints, but worked great on my tie rod ends too. Had them off in less than a minute. This will also preserve your boots if you plan to re-use them. Don't hit the threaded end of the tie rod end to try and pop it out, you will just mushroom it and make it even more difficult to remove. The pic you posted above looks like a pitman arm puller to me.

[blackedoutharley]

Buy a tie rod pickle fork and a bigger ball peen hammer. If you have air try an airhammer with the pickle fork attachment.

[maxwoof]

I have always used the two hammer method. Whack the sides with both hammers at the same time. If the tie rod stud faces down, sometimes I put jack pressure under it before I strike it. Other times, I will pry with a long bar. Usually takes 3-5 tries, but has always worked.