I tried to replace the inner tie rods on my 1999 Ford Ranger, 3.0 litre V6, 2 wheel drive. I took off the outer tie rod ends, and the dust boots, only to find that the steering gear rack doesn't have any flat spots to put a wrench on to hold it in place while removing the inner tie rods. Is there any way to remove the inner tie rods? If I try turning the inner tie rod "nuts" without holding the steering gear I'll wreck the pinion gear. Thanks

 

You will not hurt anything. Just grab hold of them and rotate off.