Hey guys,

As the title states, I know that this may be a dumb question but what do you look for when checking tie rods? How do you know that they are going bad?



Thanks!

 

The easiest way is to look for too much play. Have someone move the steering wheel back and forth a tiny bit, slowly. Watch the relationship of the tie rod to the spindle. If you can detect movement between the two, it's gone. That would be an indication of excess play. You could also unbolt the tie rod, separate it from the spindle and check it for excess play by hand.

 

^^x2, a buddy turning the wheel would be handy. How many miles you got on the truck, do you have loose play in the steering wheel now?

 

When mine went bad, I could actually here the front end "give" a little when say going over curbs or large bumps. New tie rod is only like $65. and has a grease point unlike the factory! Also if it is bad, it is likely your alignment is out also.

 

I have 78,000 on the truck. They were replaced around 50ish. I spend a lot of time on logging roads, and I know the bumps and abuse brings there live down. I am assuming you always have to get a alignment after tie rods are replaced? I don't believe I have any. I need to have the girlfriend turn the wheel back and forth while I take a look though to verify.

Thanks for the help.
Ryan

 

if it pops when you turn i assume it is broken or bent correct? sorry to get in your thread but i was about to ask a question about tie rods.

also if you are afraid of breaking up the new stock tie rods you might want to look into these, i am planning on buying them within the month for my truck.

http://bulletproofsteering.com/fordpricingoptions.html

 

That website gives me a headache.

 

Holly crap, you ain't kidding.

My eyes My eyes! Someone should tell him how much business he is losing by having that absurd web design.

 

I had to check it out because you said that, wow. Hope their parts are better than their web design.

 

I always just wiggle the tire for the outside to see if there is play.

 

Excellent.

Thanks guys