How to remove and repair the rubber gaiters on the steering tie rods

Discussion in 'How To' started by martinsbus, Mar 1, 2012.

  1. Following changes in the MOT test all rubber gaiters that are split will result in a fail.
    It's easy to replace a gaiter with only a few tools, and it shouldn't take too long. I replaced mine in 1 hour start to finish.

    Few product reviews. GSF tie rods are fine and reasonably priced but the gaiters are rubbish

    Rubber gaiters came from Cool air and they were top notch.

    Ok, on looking under the front of the bus, you are looking for any gaiters that are split.
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    remember there are 2 tie rods one going to each wheel. As you can see the L/H tie rod (supplied by GSF) has split gaiters
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    Once your bus is safely up on the stands remove the road wheels to make life easier. Slacken off the nyloc nut or remove the split pin from castellated nut and slacken.
    As the gaiter is already wrecked the easiest method for removing the tie rod ball joint is to use a splitter and large hammer
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    Line the splitter up above the ball joint and hammer home.
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    Now to upset the neighbours. Hit the splitter V hard to shock the joint apart. It also helps to smartly strike the stub axle just below the ball joint
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    Once the tie rod frees up, undo the nuts and remove the tie rod.
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    In the comfort of your garage remove the damaged gaiter. This is the ideal opportunity to inspect the tie rod and importantly the ball joint. If this is worn then replace it as this is also a MOT fail. As long as the ball joint is sound, then check that everything is nice and clean and that no grit or rubbish has got into the ball joint.
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    Grease the ball joint and then slip the replacement gaiter over the ball joint
    The gaiter is held in place by 2 springs. The small one is simple to put on, the larger bottom is a bit fiddler. Just be careful not to puncture the new gaiter
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    Once the gaiters are fitted and secure, refit to your bus.
    Don't forget to tighten the securing bolts and replace the split pins as required.
     

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