Tie Rod End Replacement Question

[Primered_69]

Okay I am replacing the tie rod ends. I went with the Moog brand ones. I read that to do the swap you count how many threads are showing then copy that to get it correct spacing.

The problem is the Moog sleeves and the original ones are different lengths therefore different thread counts.

Can I just mark the middle of the sleeves at a center line then measure out to the original ones center then match that measurement on the replacement.

How exact does it have to be. Will it make any difference if I am off by a thread or two here and there?

[ampsyco]

i assume your going to get it aligned after ???

if so then as long as your close it should be ok to drive to the alignment shop.

if not then i dont know what to tell ya. i wouldnt recommend changing them without getting it aligned.

[Primered_69]

I am going to get it aligned before driving any length due to it also being swapped over to dropped spindles and dropped springs. I even thought about getting it towed there.

[ampsyco]

as long as you get it close then you should be ok. take it for a short ride to see how it feels first.

i wouldnt spend the money on the tow.

[hotrodhomi]

Originally Posted by ampsyco

as long as you get it close then you should be ok. take it for a short ride to see how it feels first.

i wouldnt spend the money on the tow.

I agree.

[lowrollin70gmc]

If you're replacing inner and outer at the same time, just take the old assembly and compare it to the new assembly on the workbench and get it close enough to count.

[PrerunnerRob]

Pull the old tie rod end from the spindle, set it close to 90 degrees, and take a rough measurement from the centerline of the tie rod end to the adjuster sleeve. This should do you right until you get to the alignment shop.