Guide: Tie Rod End Steering Nut Removal

Tie Rod End Steering Nut Removal

Using the Mini-Ductor® Induction Heater & Flameless Torch

Tie rod ends are an integral part of a vehicle’s steering mechanism. You probably know that removing rusted, corroded or locked tie rod end nuts is often a lengthy, difficult and frustrating task for auto mechanics. Problem tie rod end nut removal is very difficult if only using a ratchet wrench. It usually requires the application of penetrating fluid, or blasting the area with a torch – this is time consuming, can cause unwanted damage and it’s a potential risk to the operator’s safety.

How Does It Work?

The Mini-Ductor handheld induction heating tool heats metal parts in seconds. This allows all types of adhesives bonded to metal, fasteners bonded with thread lock compound, and seized hardware, to be removed and released much quicker and safer than by traditional naked flame heating.
When a torch flame hits metal, most of its heat is blown away from the load, wasting its energy and transferring its heat to unwanted areas. With the Mini-Ductor, nearly all the energy pulled is applied to the load, making the tool faster and more energy efficient than its classic rival competitor, the torch.

Lower Your Insurance Costs by Eliminating Torches, Open Flame

Mechanics do not need to run the risk of using a torch which could damage the CV joint, rubber grommets, or the rotor.The Mini-Ductor’s coils are thin enough to wrap round the nut and heat it in seconds for easy removal. Using the coil, a 3/4″ nut is heated red hot in 15 seconds. If a torch was used, this would take several minutes. The heat expands the nut and breaking any corrosion bonds. The Mini-Ductor provides a safer, quicker and less damaging alternative to naked flame heating and a great return on investment. Apart from the increased safety benefits, the use of the Mini-Ductor can increase a garage’s fastener extraction productivity by over 50%. Insurance premiums can be reduced by approximately 20% if an oxy-acetylene system is replaced with the Mini-Ductor, saving you money and increasing your profit. If your workshop in located in a no flame zone, e.g. near an airport, this is your only option!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Equipment needed: heat resistant gloves, overalls, goggles and a respirator mask (if smoke will be produced from heating)
Knowledge required: a well-reviewed proficiency of the Mini-Ductor’s safety and operating instructions

Step 1: Identify rusted or frozen tie rod end steering nut.