Thomas SAF-T-LINER C2, Maintenance Manual

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If any movement is detected at one tie rod end,
replace
both tie rod ends. Always replace tie rod
ends in pairs, even if only one tie rod end is
damaged.
NOTICE
Do not attempt to straighten a bent cross tube.
Doing so could result in damage to the axle. Be
sure to replace the cross tube with an original
equipment cross tube with the same length, diam-
eter, and thread size as the existing cross tube.
5. Check the cross tube for cracks or other dam-
age. If the cross tube is bent or damaged, re-
place the cross tube.
6. Check the clamps for damage. If a clamp is
damaged, replace the clamp. Replace the entire
cross tube assembly if either clamp is welded to
the cross tube.
7. Check for proper installation of the tie rod end
clamp to the cross tube. Make sure that the tie
rod ends are threaded in the cross tube past the
clamps and the slots at the cross tube ends.
8. Check the grease fittings for damage. If a grease
fitting is damaged, replace it.
Some tie rod ends have no grease fittings be-
cause they are not greaseable. Do not install a
grease fitting on a nongreaseable tie rod end.
9. Check that the cotter pin is in place. If it is not,
tighten the tie rod end nut to the applicable value
depending on the size of the stud.
•
7/8–14, 160 to 300 lbf·ft (217 to 406 N·m)
•
1–14, 250 to 450 lbf·ft (339 to 610 N·m)
•
1-1/8–12, 350 to 650 lbf·ft (475 to 881
N·m)
•
1-1/4–12, 500 to 675 lbf·ft (678 to 915
N·m)
10. Check the steering arm bolts for a minimum
torque of 300 lbf·ft (406 N·m). If the steering arm
bolt torque has fallen below this specification,
remove the bolt, clean all the threads, and apply
new Loctite® 680. Tighten the bolt 300 to 450
lbf·ft (406 to 610 N·m).
09/01/2006 f330234
Fig. 5, Checking Tie Rod End Movement
Front Axle
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Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus Maintenance Manual, June 2015
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