What lubricant to use when replacing Track Rod Ends?

I always use copper slip on track rod ends - have done on every set I've ever changed. Makes life much easier.

As for removal, use large quantities of penetrating oil before heating them. Not WD - something like plusgas.

Doesn't heat tend to fatally damage track rod ends? Did on my old Cavalier thanks to a muppet workshop manager with a blowtorch and ended up with the car half way across a pavement - fortunately there was no-one on it at the time.

loosened off,

If you can, take the bolt out and put it in from the other side. Place a strong piece of metal in the gap and tighten the bolt. This will open up the clamp slightly so you'll be able to move it.

The message from Grunff contains these words:

I use it on just about everything. Smashing stuff.

Think he's probably trying to loosen the thread that screws onto the rack end, not the balljoint clamp. However that's a smart suggstion I'll file for next time I need it!

It's easier just to use a balljoint splitter.

I was referring to situations such as this...

Yes, thats the one, I can get the balljoint undone fairly easily.

Thanks though for all your replies, I have learnt to use lubrication next time I do the ends. Although disappointed but not surprised that there was no mention of this in the Haynes manual.

/Heds