Credit: Christopher H.

This is the process for replacing the tie rods on a Y33 Cima (’96 VQ30DET). The driver’s side boot was broken, so I did both sides. Q45 tie rods fit just fine, and a universal boot from Amazon worked as a replacement.

Steps:

• Mark the locking nut.
• Loosen the locking nut.
• Remove the crown nut.
• Bop out the tie rod.
• Remove the old boot and tie rod.
• Turn the steering wheel to expose as much of the steering rack worm gear as possible.
• Pack grease onto the rack.
• Install the new boot.
• Thread the new locking nut back to your marking.
• Install the new tie rod.
• Slide everything back in place.
• Tighten the crown nut just past the cotter pin hole.
• Install the cotter pin.

All done — repeat the same steps on the other side. Then, of course, notice your rear CV axle boot is gone… and on to the next adventure.

Credit: Christopher H.

This is the location of the Y33 Cima VQ30DET fuel filter in case anyone couldn’t find it. I’ve seen a few threads on it but never saw a photo. It’s mounted with a simple three-bolt bracket and two bolts for the clamp. I kept the OEM hard lines and replaced the jumper rubber hoses (6 mm), and also replaced the fuel filter itself with a fresh one..