I think Ford threw you a bone on that one -- if I had been the service manager I suspect I would have politely informed you that you were on your own as far as covering the cost of the repair since the suspension of the truck (of which the tie-rod end is a part) was heavily modified......

 

His tie rod end didn't fail, it was the tie rod that failed. Typical service manager.

 

 

I suspect the tie rod end was boogered up by the same forces that busted the tie rod.

Personally, I think the dealer would have been well justified to deny warranty coverage.

FWIW, a lifted Lincoln Town Car on at least 24" rims busted a tie rod end in front of my office yesterday. The rims were huge - maybe 26"? Guy was trying to make a left hand turn and one let go. I guess the tie rod is the weakest link.

 

I know I shouldn't ask, but why in the HECK would anyone have 24"-26" rims on a LincolnTown Car!

 

I wish I had not seen it. My eyes - they burn! It was horrible.

Maybe those 15 or 20 series tires really firm up the Licoln's ride, lol.

These were the biggest rims I've ever seen in person. I would say the Lincoln was raised up at least 4" to fit them under.