Specification Details
| Thread Size (Inner/Outer) | M14 x 1.5, M16 x 1.5, M18 x 1.5 (or model-specific) |
| Overall Length | Variable; designed to match OEM spec for correct alignment range |
| Ball Stud Axial Play | < 0.8mm (new condition) |
| Maximum Angular Movement | Typically ± 25° to ± 35° |
| Rotation Torque | 1.0 - 4.5 Nm |
| Boot Material | Nitrile Rubber (NBR) with reinforced ribs |
| Housing Material | Cold-forged steel for high tensile strength |
| Coating | Electro-galvanized or zinc-nickel plating |
| Compatibility | Left/Right specific or universal; indicated per listing |
Primary Applications
This component is essential for maintaining steering accuracy and safety in numerous scenarios:
- Steering Play Correction: The primary fix for excessive free play or looseness in the steering wheel, where the wheel turns slightly before the wheels respond.
- Post-Alignment Discovery: Often identified when a vehicle cannot be brought into proper alignment specifications due to worn, non-adjustable tie rod ends.
- Tire Wear Prevention: Replacing worn ends is the definitive solution to combat scalloped or feathered tire wear patterns caused by incorrect toe alignment.
- Complete Steering Rack Service: When rebuilding or replacing a steering rack, new tie rod ends are almost always installed as part of the assembly for a complete repair.
- Routine Inspection Replacement: A common wear item replaced during scheduled suspension inspections on high-mileage vehicles to prevent sudden failure.
Key Benefits
- Sharpened Steering Response: Removes slack for immediate and precise feedback from the road, enhancing driver confidence and control.
- Extended Tire Life: By allowing for precise alignment adjustment, it prevents the rapid, uneven tire wear caused by worn components.
- Robust Sealing: The multi-ribbed, high-quality rubber boot is designed to flex without tearing, effectively keeping lubrication in and contaminants out.
- Precision Threads: Clean, accurate threads allow for smooth adjustment during alignment and prevent cross-threading during installation.
- Rust Inhibition: High-grade plating protects the threads and housing from corrosion, which is critical for components exposed to road salt and moisture.
- Direct Fitment: No modification required. Designed to bolt directly onto the existing steering rack/center link and steering knuckle.
- Vibration Reduction: A tight, new tie rod end dampens road vibrations that would otherwise travel up the steering column to the wheel.
Materials & Build Quality
Every detail is chosen for durability and reliable steering control:
- Ball Stud: Manufactured from case-hardened alloy steel for a hard, wear-resistant surface and a tough, shock-absorbing core.
- Bearing Socket: Utilizes a pre-lubricated, oil-impregnated sintered metal bushing or a polymer composite for consistent performance and low friction.
- Threaded Shank: Machined from high-tensile steel with rolled threads (not cut), which are stronger and more resistant to stripping.
- Dust Boot: Made from flexible, abrasion-resistant Nitrile Rubber, molded with deep convolutions to accommodate the full range of steering motion without stress cracking.
- Locking Mechanism: Includes a serrated taper seat and a high-strength castellated nut secured with a cotter pin, ensuring the joint cannot loosen under vibration.