Remove the Tie Rod

• 1). Buy tie rods that are specific to your Subaru Outback's model year.
  
  
• 2). Unscrew the lug nuts of the Subaru Outback, and jack up your car. When you have it safely supported on jack stands, remove the wheels.
  
  
• 3). Remove the gearbox for the rack and pinion and secure it with a vice.
  
  
• 4). Take out the tie rod end from the gearbox. If your Outback has a tie rod end plate, remove that also.
  
  
• 5). Use needle-nosed pliers to take out the clip from the tie rod book. Slide the boot to the tie rod end so that it's out of the way.
  
  
• 6). Move the band from the boot by using a pry tool, then extend the rack at least 1.57 inches. Use the pry tool to undo the lock wire that secures the lock washer on the tie rod end.
  
  
• 7). Loosen the lock nut with a wrench, then tighten the adjustment screw until you can't easily turn it more. Remove the tie rod with a wrench.
  
  

Replace the Tie Rod

• 1). Put on a new lock washer, and screw the tie rod into the rack end. Use a chisel to stake the lock washer in place.
  
  
• 2). Grease the groove that's located on the rod and gear box, then slide the boot forward into the groove.
  
  
• 3). Tighten the bands of the boot with a screwdriver until both ends touch each other. Make sure you do this from the underside of the gearbox.
  
  
• 4). Install a new clip on the boot end, then reinstall the lock plate if your Outback has one.
  
  
• 5). Place a new lock nut on the tie rod end and the threaded portion of the tie rod. Tighten the nut to 31 to 44 foot pounds.
  
  
• 6). Replace the rack and pinion back into the gearbox. Put back on the tires, then tighten the lug nuts to 95 to 105 foot pounds. Get the Outback aligned.