Does the special press tool require when replacing the outer tie rod ends? I am talking about the special tool mentioned in the WIS instructions. It is used to press the tie rod joint off the steering knuckle. It seems very straight forward, but would like to get some heads up from those who've done it.

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98 ML320 (gone but not forgotten)

I've found the best and certainly the fastest way to do this is with an air hammer and a 21/32" Pneumatic Tie Rod Separator.

I just happen to do the drag link and both tie rod assemblies on my 1985 300 Turbodiesel today. That's a total of six tie rod ends. It took less than 1 minute to remove all six. Each popped off after about 1 to 3 seconds of being hit with the air hammer. Photo of setup below.

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I used a ball joint splitter (looks like a tuning fork) and a hammer. Easy job