[x ReAcT x]

So after seeing all the rust and decay im starting to regret my purchase. At this point im going to completely tear this axle down and see how the bearing and seals are doing, im praying that everything will be good to go and i can paint it and install it right back on the truck. First things first, need to remove the tie rod link/center link/drag link (ive heard it called a million names) but its the rod that goes across the axle and connects the passenger side knuckle to the driver side knuckle keeping the wheels in sync when cornering. To remove it, there is a ball joint on each side of the rod that needs to be taken off. The ball joint has a castle nut on the top, with a cotter pin which passes through the ball joint bolt to secure it in place. You first must remove the cotter pin by straightening it, and pulling it right out. The best tool to do this would be a long nose plier. (preferably a Channel Lock brand because they are Made in USA)