Tie Rod End - Inner

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the inner tie rod end on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, including steering alignment considerations.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Inner tie rod end × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Steering rack boot (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Boot clamps × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Verify vehicle is powered off completely and key fob is removed from vehicle vicinity
2. Chock rear wheels securely
3. Loosen front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
4. Raise front of vehicle and secure on jack stands at designated lift points
5. Remove front wheel on affected side
6. Take photos of steering linkage orientation for reference
7. Measure and record distance from inner tie rod end to outer tie rod end adjustment point for rough alignment reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the steering rack area
   Remove any splash shields or underbody panels obstructing access to the steering rack and inner tie rod assembly. The EDV 500 may have protective covers over the steering components that need to be unbolted. Store all fasteners in a container for reinstallation.
2. 2

   Mark alignment reference points
   Before loosening anything, use a paint pen or marker to mark the position of the inner tie rod relative to the steering rack, and mark the thread depth where the outer tie rod connects to the inner tie rod. Count and record the number of visible threads on the inner tie rod past the outer tie rod jam nut.
3. 3

   Remove outer tie rod end from knuckle
   Remove the cotter pin (if equipped) and loosen the castle nut securing the outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle. Use a pickle fork or tie rod separator to separate the taper fit connection. Remove the nut completely and separate the outer tie rod from the knuckle.
4. 4

   Loosen outer tie rod jam nut
   Apply penetrating lubricant to the jam nut threads where the outer tie rod connects to the inner tie rod. Allow to penetrate for 10-15 minutes. Using two wrenches, loosen the jam nut while holding the outer tie rod steady. Do not unscrew the outer tie rod from the inner tie rod yet.
5. 5

   Remove steering rack boot
   Locate the rubber or silicone boot covering the inner tie rod connection to the steering rack. Cut or loosen the clamps securing the boot to the steering rack and tie rod. Slide the boot away from the inner tie rod connection point to expose the inner tie rod jam nut and flat surfaces. Inspect boot for damage and replace if torn or cracked.
6. 6

   Secure steering rack
   The steering rack must be prevented from rotating during inner tie rod removal. Have an assistant hold the steering wheel firmly, or use a steering wheel locking device. Alternatively, some technicians clamp the rack housing with padded locking pliers, taking care not to damage the housing.
7. 7

   Remove inner tie rod end
   Using an inner tie rod removal tool (crow's foot style), grip the flat surfaces on the inner tie rod body near where it threads into the steering rack. Apply penetrating lubricant generously. Turn counterclockwise to unthread the inner tie rod from the steering rack. If no special tool is available, large adjustable pliers can be used carefully on the flats without damaging threads. Count the number of turns required for removal.
8. 8

   Inspect steering rack threads
   Once the inner tie rod is removed, inspect the threads inside the steering rack for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean threads with a wire brush if necessary. Check that no metal shavings or contaminants have entered the steering rack housing. Wipe clean with a lint-free cloth.
9. 9

   Prepare new inner tie rod
   Remove the new inner tie rod from packaging and verify it matches the old part exactly. Apply a thin coat of medium-strength thread locking compound to the threads that will engage with the steering rack. Do not apply excessive amounts that could contaminate the steering rack.
10. 10

    Install new inner tie rod
    Thread the new inner tie rod into the steering rack by hand, turning clockwise. Thread it in to approximately the same number of turns as recorded during removal, or until it reaches the alignment marks made earlier. Use the inner tie rod tool to tighten securely. Without manufacturer torque specifications, tighten firmly using the tool with steady pressure until fully seated.
11. 11

    Reinstall steering rack boot
    Slide the steering rack boot (new or original if undamaged) back into position over the inner tie rod connection. Ensure the boot is properly seated in its grooves on both the steering rack and inner tie rod body. Install new clamps and tighten securely to prevent contamination and moisture entry.
12. 12

    Reattach outer tie rod
    Thread the outer tie rod onto the new inner tie rod to the same position as marked before disassembly, matching the thread count recorded earlier. This will provide a rough alignment to make the vehicle driveable to an alignment shop. Do not fully tighten the jam nut yet.
13. 13

    Connect outer tie rod to steering knuckle
    Insert the outer tie rod end taper into the steering knuckle. Install the castle nut and tighten securely. If the vehicle uses a cotter pin, tighten the nut to the next cotter pin hole alignment and install a new cotter pin. Bend cotter pin ends to secure.
14. 14

    Tighten jam nut
    While holding the outer tie rod steady with one wrench, tighten the jam nut against the outer tie rod housing using another wrench. Ensure the outer tie rod does not rotate during this process, which would alter your rough alignment setting.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any splash shields or underbody panels removed for access
2. Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts
3. Lower vehicle to ground and torque lug nuts to manufacturer specification in a star pattern
4. Repeat procedure for opposite side if both inner tie rods are being replaced

Verification

• Before driving, turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary to verify full range of motion without binding or unusual noises
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area to verify steering response
• Check for any play in steering or unusual steering feel
• Schedule professional wheel alignment immediately - do not delay as improper alignment will cause rapid tire wear and unsafe handling
• After alignment, verify steering wheel is centered when driving straight

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