while my truck was parked and i have to curb the wheels, some jackass drove by and clipped my left front tire. i get in later and start driving and notice my steering wheel is pulling and the truck feels wierd. i get out and look at the tires and right tire is straight and left is cocked in a little, i look underneath and the tierod is bent. (the bar above and in the front area behind the wheel) how can i fix this? i cant drive it far. can i heat the bent section and straighten it? is there a tool i can put on the rod to straighten it?

 

Replace it? I think by heating you will weaken the metal and I don't think you want it to break it on you when Your doing 70 on the freeway.

 

is it an easy replace? or should i take it to repair shop? pep boys is close to me.

 

you could take it up there and see what they say. im not sure tho. never really messed with it.

 

i believe its the inner tie rod that is bent. can i change this myself?

 

just replace it its not a hard fix dont mess around with tierods it can be verry dangerous to drive around with a bad one!! and do not heat it and bend it back heat will weaken the metal!!

 

do i need any special tools for the job?

 

yes, there are tools for inner tie rods,if you dont have them or access to them, i would take it to a shop.

 

just bassic mechanic tools wrenches and maybe a mallet to get the tierod off the steering knuckle i use a hammer and tap the side of the housing and it ussualy pops right out!!

 

oops i was reffering to the tierod end im sorry lol!!