changing front tie rod
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 128
Likes: 0
From: NEWTOWN, ct
changing front tie rod
Im changing my main connecting rod in the front in my 1999 f250 SD. I have both ends and was planning on re-using the threaded connector in the middle. I have a puller, but what else do I need to make sure this job goes smooth the first time and I dont mess alignment up? just make perfect measurements??? Also could wrecked bushings on the tie rod end make a loud knocking when im plowing and hit a decent bump? It makes the worst sound in the world when the plow's on but everything else in the front end is pretty much new (ball joints, shocks) so is that maybe it? please give me some advice so I can do the tie rod before the weekend comes, thanks!
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 262
Likes: 0
i changed out my short end drag link(steering gear box to long shaft) and used the orginal threaded coupling, yours will be fine unless it is physically damaged. if you want to change it out they aren't that much$$. as of tools the puller will be nice to remove it from the knuckle i had to use a 1 1/2 cresent wrench an a big pipe wrench to unscrew mine they were old and rusted.. as far as i know the knuckles do not use bushings the weak link is the rod end itself. as far as alingment if the steering wheel is locked and you don't move anything and have good measurements the new parts shouldn't change much, i do recommend a alignment after changing the tie rod thou, when i did my drag link i just drove it and then did fine adjustments if the wheel was off, the tie rod thou controls the toe in and out so if it is out your tires will wear baddly
