Easy lifehacks

What should the diameter of a tie rod end be?

What should the diameter of a tie rod end be?

An outer tie rod end could have the right thread diameter but the wrong thread pitch and in those cases it will not fit correctly. The diameter of a tie rod’s threaded end is pretty self explanatory, just measure the diameter of the rod end that attaches the outer rod to the inner rod. Make sure to measure on the threads and not in-between them.

What to look for in a front suspension ball joint?

Look for the grease fitting. If your front suspension uses MacPherson struts, look for a wear indicator, which is usually a grease fitting. Grasp the fitting and try to wiggle it. If the fitting moves around inside the housing, you’ll need to replace the ball joint.

What does the letter l mean on a tie rod?

The letter at the end (R or L) will still denote the direction of the thread: R for right handed, L for Left handed. So if your specification says 0.75-18L, you have a thread diameter of 0.75 inches and there are 18 threads per inch on the rod. The L tells you its a left handed thread. The two types of rod end types are pretty easy to identify.

How is the pitch of a tie rod measured?

The pitch of the thread is basically the distance between the threads and can be measured in millimeters between threads or number of threads within a one inch span of threading. An outer tie rod end could have the right thread diameter but the wrong thread pitch and in those cases it will not fit correctly.

How many ball joint rod ends are there?

Choose from our selection of ball joint rod ends, including over 900 products in a wide range of styles and sizes. In stock and ready to ship. Contact Us Order Activity Punchout

Where is the ball joint on a swivel shaft shank?

Swivel-Shaft Rod Ends With a ball joint at the top of the shank, these rod ends pivot in the middle of the body instead of in the eyelet. Use them for linear push applications that require movement along the length of the connecting rod. Decrease the ID of your rod end to allow approximately 60° of misalignment.

Why do you need a tie rod end?

It is a ball and socket construction that allows the tie rod to move with the vehicle’s suspension. A tie rod end also aids in aligning the vehicle, and most are threaded on one end to allow for adjustment. Many vehicles use both an inner and outer tie rod.

What kind of linkage does a rod end have?

An internally threaded rod end connects to threaded rods, studs, and other parts with male threads. Along with excellent wear resistance, these linkages have a grease fitting for easy lubrication. Made of stainless steel, these ball joint linkages offer more corrosion resistance than steel and zinc ball joint linkages.

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Ruth Doyle