Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Disconnecting throttle rod linkage??

[Big E]

Anyone know how to disconnect the ball joints on the throttle rod? Mine broke on the threaded portion going across the salt flats in Utah. We were able to splint it together with some heavy electrical wire and hose clamps. Held long enough to get us home, although I didn't quite get full throttle.



I didn't want to just start prying on them. My cheap-o service manual is no help.



TIA

 

[kenny61]

I did mine awhile ago and i cant remember if there was a clip or not but i think there was. If no one answers I will take a look tomorrow and let you know

 

[JimBob24]

My '97 broke a couple of times. There was no clip. Just pried or twisted it off.



Jim

 

[The patriot]

I pulled my 98 (12 valve) linkage to clean & lube it.

I just pulled it off. No clips. Cheap plastic ends.

 

[Big E]

The ends on mine are metal with what looks like a plastic or rubber seal around the openings.



I know there was a recall some time ago. I replaced my throttle cable myself before the recall, but I didn't get the linkage done because I didn't have the plastic ends and figured they wouldn't be a problem. They lasted longer than the rod did.



According to the Dodge website I never had the recall done, so I may see if they will replace it under the recall. If not I will do it myself.

 

[Joe G.]

There IS a clip if the recall has not been done. The recall replaces all that stuff. The little clip is a wrap around wire. Feel around at the base of the ball. You should find a little piece of folded wire sticking out. Push that so that the clip unwinds from the base of the ball. Then you can pull the rest of the pin out by pulling away from the ball along the rod. It's just a tiny thing.

 

[The patriot]

I had the recall done on mine.

I thought they only did the cable... ... that was already replaced by me before I got the notice.

 

[Joe G.]

I'm not sure about the rod, but I think it is replaced in the recall. I know the rod ends are. The lever that attaches to the forward end of the rod is replaced as well as the cable. It's a safety recall so it's free. The lever is different depending on transmission type.

 

[kenny61]

mine had the wire clip things now that I remember

 

[Big E]

I do remember seeing the wire clips.



I'm going to go see the dealer next week and see if I can get it done under the recall. I hear those parts aren't exactly cheap.



Thank you all for the replies.