Help needed. Madmagna this is really a question for you. I easily replaced the rack ends (AKA inner tie ends) on my old TS V6. Tried to replace rack ends on TF without success. In the case of the TS there was a tab washer (flatten the ends to prevent unscrewing). In the case of the TF all I can see (using a mirror) is a slot on the rack part (not a full depth slot, but one that tapers) and I assume it is there for a spanner to grip and prevent the rack from twisting when one unscrews the rack end. I thought there might be a pin, or screw, however there is just the slot. This makes me think locktite compound was used by Mitsubishi to prevent the rack end unscrewing.THe new rack ends that i bought (non Mitsubishi) have a hole in the ends, which does a 90 degree turn and opens into the threaded area. my assumption is this is there for excess loctite to move into. These rack ends were also supplied with tab washers.

Is there a special tool for removing the rack ends (origian Mitsubishi rack ends have no spanner grip points i.e they are round). How easy is it to twist the rack itself if one does not hold it with a spanner.

I really need to replace the rack ends on the TF, WITHOUT Rremoving the rack from the car. Will at some point need to do same on TJ. I was told rack ends commonly go on Magnas. The tie rod ends, are still fine both on TS and TF, whereas the rack ends ahve noticable play.

Maate I took the rack ends out of a TW steering rack (not fitted to vehicle) & I had to use a set of vise grips on the round end with a spanner on the rack end & yes it was tight. Would not recommend trying to undo the rack ends WITHOUT a spanner on the rack as you may twist and damage (unknowingly) the rack & pinion mechanism.

Cheers