I thought tie rods were under $20 for outters, everywhere I check are $29-50 anyways, when I redid all my control arms and springs, etc etc.... when i pulled down my tie rod on the passenger side and had to give it a couple wacks so it would drop down. I guess in that process I crapped up the threading on the tip and I cant get my bolt back on. This may sound like bad news but until I buy a new one or repair it????? Is it a horrible idea to just throw the pin through the screw so it wont fall and make a couple short trips? or will i kill everyone including myself? :eek:

Phil,
Is the thread beyond repair from a couple of minutes with a fine file or thread chaser?

I've saved a couple of brake line fittings that way.

Joe

Yeah it's just the tip... id hate to buy a new one, this sucker isnt in bad shape and all my suspension work put me into the poor hole smile.gif I'll look into a file or batter with it, im sure it will go eventually....

Don't even THINK of driving your car without the tie rod stud securely tightened into the steering arm and the nut and cotter pin in place. The stud is hardened, driving your car with it loose will cause the stud to pound on the tapered hole in your steering arm. This type damage to the taper in your steering arm can result in future connections coming loose.

Originally posted by JIML82:
Don't even THINK of driving your car without the tie rod stud securely tightened into the steering arm and the nut and cotter pin in place. The stud is hardened, driving your car with it loose will cause the stud to pound on the tapered hole in your steering arm. This type damage to the taper in your steering arm can result in future connections coming loose. Not to mention that once in a lifetime panic swerve you might have to do while on one of those short trips.

File it til you can get a nut on it. If you have a grinder, you might be able to hit just the spot where the thread is jacked so you can get a nut on there. The taper is what holds it, but the nut locks the taper in place when you tighten it. You need the nut. Sorry to disappoint, but safety first.

K

Yeah you guys are right, I figured so. I'll hook up a couple grinding bits and take down the first ring of thread, it should be good to go afterwords.

In 1988 my inner tie rod fell out of the pitman arm at about 65 mph. Not a fun ride speaking from experience. Luckily I was traveling straight and had a good alienment. Lets just say, the guy who did my front end work and I had a little problem. Play it smart and do yourself a huge favor...Do it right the first time!!!!!!