Why does my tie rod have a different thread than the parts I can get at the parts store for my 1986 Dodge Ramcharger
The shaft on the drivers side tie rod end has coarse thread and everything at the part store has fine thread
My car has 120000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hello. If the thread is different than the replacement it is more than likely because the center drag link that was installed was incorrect for the vehicle. Depending on the model of the vehicle it can have a coarse or a fine thread. This changes the amount that the suspension moves during an alignment. You may need to purchase additional parts such as the drag link to get this to work.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
There are four tie rod ends on most vehicles.
The tie rods must be exactly the same length overall. Any toe adjustment would have to be made on BOTH side equally, assuming the steering wheel is straight ahead. The length overall of the tie rods is also critical. They are designed so that as the suspension goes up and down, the car does not steer.
An outer tie rod end is connected to each front wheel spindle, and an inner tie rod end is connected to the steering rack or steering gear box assembly.
In your vehicle, there are two types of tie rods – an inner tie rod and an outer tie rod.
Simply put, there are two main sizes for tie rod ends, the studs which locate into either the pitman (steering) arm, or the spindles (steering knuckles) are of either an M10 or M12.
Consisting of an inner tie rod and an outer tie rod end, they work together to give you optimum wheel control. The inner tie rod is made up of an inline ball joint and connects to the steering rack while the outer tie rod connects to the steering knuckle.
The right- and left-side tie rods are connected to each other by a center link, which is also mounted to the Pitman arm on the steering gear and the idler arm on the passenger side of the vehicle.
Tie rods help you steer your vehicle and ensures that it tracks straight. While many different parts can cause your vehicle to come out of alignment, a worn tie rod can become loose, causing the front end of the vehicle to become misaligned.
You can find the outer tie rod ends just inside next to the tires where you`ll see a ball and stud with a locking nut attached to the steering knuckle. The outer tie rod is connected on the outer end with a castle nut and a cotter pin to keep it tightly attached.
Cars will typically have two tie rod ends on each side: one inner tie rod end and one outer tie rod end — four total with a set of two per side.
It`s important to make sure the vehicle`s tie rods are close to the same length after the toe adjustment is made. When one tie rod is longer than the other, it can indicate suspension damage, such as a bent steering arm or knuckle.
To reduce steering efforts and bending moments on the steering rack, it is desired that the tie rods and the steering rack remain roughly parallel.
We recommend — 2.75”- 3.25”
We recommend selecting a tie that is between 2.75” and 3.25” in width. It`s possible to wear a tie as wide as 3.5” but anything wider has the risk of looking like you raided Grandad`s closet.
While there is no universal design for tie rod ends, it is advisable to ensure the one you buy is compatible with what your car needs.
Neckties are generally available in two lengths: standard and extra-long. To measure tie length, stretch out an unknotted tie and take note of the length from tip to tail. Standard tie length is 57 inches.
Tie rods are made using best quality Mild Steel(MS). EN8, EN19 and Stainless Steel(SS) alloys can also be used as alternatives. Tie Rods are extensively used in the steering linkage for connecting the rods to the steering knuckles.
Critical Buckling load for Tie Rod: 2xπxExI Pcr = LxL Where, Pcr = Critical/Max. Load in N. E = Modulus of Elasticity in N/mm2. = 200 x 103 N/mm I = Moment of Inertia in mm4.
There are four tie rod ends on most vehicles. The outer tie rod ends — one per side — are most susceptible to wear and failure. If one outer tie rod end has failed, the other is probably not far behind.
Most vehicles` steering linkage incorporates two inner tie rod ends, and two outer tie rod ends. Some larger trucks or Jeeps with solid axle suspensions use a slightly different set-up that incorporates four different tie rods.
There is a test protocol in the factory service manual that is relied on to determine if a tie rod end is “worn out”. Per the protocol, if it turns out that only 1 tie rod end is worn out, then only that one need be replaced and the others can be left alone.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Why does my tie rod have a different thread than the parts I can get at the parts store for my 1986 Dodge Ramcharger
ANSWER : Hello. If the thread is different than the replacement it is more than likely because the center drag link that was installed was incorrect for the vehicle. Depending on the model of the vehicle it can have a coarse or a fine thread. This changes the amount that the suspension moves during an alignment. You may need to purchase additional parts such as the drag link to get this to work.
Can I get cheap outer tie rods to last me one year
ANSWER : If you decide to get tie rods from an aftermarket supplier they should be good enough quality to last more than a year. They should meet or exceed factory specifications.
How to remove inner tie rod ends can’t seem to find hex engraving 4 spanner or socket set to twist Off inner tie rod off steering
ANSWER : You are correct, there is no hex pattern machined into the component. There is a special tool that can be used to remove the inner tie rods. Sometimes you can get a large wrench to work. There are only two flat surfaces, 180 degrees apart from each other, machined into the inner tie rods. I have also used a pipe wrench before, but the special tool makes it much easier. You may find loaner tools at you local parts store. If you would like, a certified technician from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to replace the tie rod end for you.
Can someone let me know the difference between two parts for the Intake Manifold Actuator. I am getting a code P1004.
ANSWER : Hi there. The part number 4593839AB is referred by the Mopar dealer specific manifold actuator part. The part number 68166449AA is referred by the Chrysler dealer specific manifold actuator part. The two parts are the same, but the difference is the Chrysler part is a kit replacement part and the Mopar part is just the replacement only with no kit. I recommend getting what your engine is designed by. If your engine is a Mopar engine, then get the Mopar part. If your engine is a Chrysler engine, then get the Chrysler part.
Torn lower ball joints and torn tie rods – 2006 Nissan Sentra
ANSWER : Hi there. Unfortunately, diagnosing what type of service may have been performed by a different mechanic without physically inspecting the vehicle is difficult, as is knowing how long your vehicle can be driven with worn out ball joints and tie rods. The problem with worn out suspension parts is that they can fail and break, which can cause an unsafe driving situation.
It might be a better idea to have a professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, come to your location to inspect all the front end components for damage and give you an idea as to how much longer you can drive your vehicle before you must replace the damaged parts or buy a new vehicle.
Check engine light is on for the catalytic converter , I fixed one about a year ago. Is there a part needed, Frontback? Which part
ANSWER : Since your vehicle has a V shaped engine, it will likely have two catalytic converters. Since the engine is mounted transversly in the vehicle (because it is front wheel drive) there will be one converter on the front and one on the rear. If you had one replaced, it is likely the issue is coming from the opposite converter. I would recommend having your exhaust system inspected by a qualified professional who has experience in exhaust system diagnosis and repair.
Can I put parts from a 2003 Dodge Caravan on a 2002 Dodge Caravan?
ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. I am sure many of the parts from the 2003 Caravan will fit the 2002 Caravan fine, if not perfectly. However, I cannot give you a solid answer without knowing specifically which parts you are talking about. I hope this helps and let us know if you need anymore assistance.
Tie Rod Replacement
ANSWER : Hi there. I believe what you are hearing from both dealers are what has recently been referred to as "alternative facts". Here is the truth. A suspension alignment is an inspection and adjustment of all the mechanical components that comprise the front end suspension system. Each part needs to be properly "aligned" in order to ensure the tires contact the ground equally for maximum efficiency, handling, braking and performance. The tie rods on ANY vehicle are a part of the suspension system and are often the root cause of a suspension becoming out of alignment. Anytime you replace any suspension component, a suspension alignment SHOULD be completed. So, if the original mechanic completed an alignment on your car and determined the tie rod was damaged and needed repair, the "service" of the alignment check was performed; and should be charged. If it were my shop, I would not have charged for (2) alignments; only one. However, each shop or dealership has different policies. Hope that clarifies the issue.
