I have 2000 Dodge Caravan and want to replace the outer tie rod. The problem I'm having is the outer tie rod won't twist off the inner tie rod. I was able to loosen the jam nut and was able to remove the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle, but the damn thing won't twist off.

I tried:
1. Penetrating lube - didn't work
2. Pliers on the inner tie rod and a 3/4 wrench on the outer tie rod but the pliers were slipping. Tried with vice grips and same thing - slipping.

Any suggestions to get the outer tie rod to twist off?

 

torch with heat

 

Thanks! I'll give it a try.

 

I leave the outer end in the spindle, then using a 7/8" wrench break loose the jamb nut, then take a pipe wrench to get the inner joint shaft to turn. seems once it breaks loose, you can unscrew it by hand.

I use www.theinductor.com for heating rusty bolts. Much safer than a torch.