Tie rod replacement

[rollbig79]

So just wondering any ideas on how big a pain in the butt everyone would think it would be to replace tie rods on my 79 chevy K10. I have owned this truck for over a year and not sure how long it has been since they have been replaced...but the steering does a lot of walking...so I know they are shot. Would it just be smarter to take it to shop that has power tools and lifts.?

[LEEVON]

Pretty simple, actually. Inners, outers, or both? Also, check your pitman arm. Do yourself a favor and pick up a tie rod and pitman arm puller like this:

http://www.harborfreight.com/tie-rod...ller-1752.html

All you really need is a 13/16? socket and this tool.

[rollbig79]

I would probably do both inner and outer....better safe then sorry. Ya I am sure I can rent that tool from the parts store.

[75chev4x4]

Not bad at all to do just measure the threads of each side of the old before you take it apart so you can get the new ones close. Buy a good replacement tie rod like moog or you will be doing the job twice, I know. When u take the castle nuts off to break the rod end loose hit what it goes through with a hammer or u can use a pickle fork to seperate it. Thread your new ones in close tighten the jam nut and go get an alignment.

[rollbig79]

Thanks guys. I was worried about doing this because of frozen up parts, but seems like it will be pretty easy.

[75chev4x4]

I would try and find a good shop to do your alignment, I alsways had problems with places like firestone. Found an old timer that sets it up just perfect and it drives great.

[Keith Seymore]

Just a point of clarification: On a K truck (which has a solid front axle) there will only be one tie rod, across the front from spindle to spindle.

There is also a fore/aft drag link, which connects the LH knuckle to the steering gear pitman arm.

Should be a pretty straighforward fix.

One more thought - once you have convinced yourself all the parts are in good shape have your alignment guy crank up the caster (like to 10 degrees). It will make a huge difference in your straight line stability and "on center" feel.

K

[rollbig79]

Thanks a lot. I thought it would only be a straight front axle and would not be all that other noise...just wanted to cover my bases on ease. I will def take that recommendation on the alignment. I want this ole beast to drive straight when I let go of the wheel. lol.

[83GMCK2500]

You mentioned it wandering, look over the rag joint at the steering box, when they wear out it can wander.

[rs74]

Tie rods usually come off pretty easy but I have had a few to where I had to use a torch. Had to heat them up before they would started to move. I always use anti-seize when putting parts like that back together.