I need to replace my inner tie rods on my 2010 Silverado crew cab 5.3L. First time attempting this, but they will not come off with a wrench or $20 inner tie rod tool from Pep Boys. I did get a loaner tool from Advanced Auto, but the tool was not deep enough to allow the crows foot to seat onto flat spots of the tie rod square. Basically, the ball joint is in the way. The manual says to use red threadlock when replacing, so I'm thinking this is the problem. Any advice or recommended tool?

 

You’ll have to apply heat to break the threadlock. Be careful as you don’t want to burn down your garage. A suspension shop can put an acetylene torch to it and break it for you.

SD

 

Thanks for the tip. My brother works for a big farming operation and they had a lift in their shop. Getting underneath it allowed me to get better leverage and break it with the $20 tool without having to heat it up.

 

time for a wheel alignment

 

I bought my son this when he replaced his upper control arms, I call it a gas hatchet, or blue nosed wrench.