Replacing tie rod ends & Tubes

[Paul C.]

I can't get my steering wheel centered without adjusting the tie rods. It is a 71 and therefore the tubes are rusted to the tie rod ends. I am soaking them in Kroil but after 37 years it maybe time to replace them.How much movement should there be in the tie rods. No sideways movement but you can wiggle them up and does easily. Any other suggestions on getting them loose.Just got a 4 wheel alignment 4 days ago but he didn't adjust the tie rods--go figure. Any advice on installation. Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: Replacing tie rod ends & Tubes

I can't get my steering wheel centered without adjusting the tie rods. It is a 71 and therefore the tubes are rusted to the tie rod ends. I am soaking them in Kroil but after 37 years it maybe time to replace them.How much movement should there be in the tie rods. No sideways movement but you can wiggle them up and does easily. Any other suggestions on getting them loose.Just got a 4 wheel alignment 4 days ago but he didn't adjust the tie rods--go figure. Any advice on installation. Thanks

Paul----

I don't know if I understand what you mean in your description of the tie rod ends. However, the studs should be TIGHT in the socket. You shouldn't be able to "wiggle" them, at all.

You may be able to free the tie rod ends from the tubes by heating the TUBES in the area of the threads. A MAPP gas torch should supply sufficient heat.

Currently available tie rod ends are not configured exactly like originals, although I understand a better reproduction may soon be on the market. Current tie rod tubes are VERY close to originals but not exact.

Follow the procedure for installation of new tie rod ends and tubes found in your Chevrolet Factory Service Manual. It's not difficult, at all.

[Paul C.]

Re: Replacing tie rod ends & Tubes

Are you saying as far as judging goes there are no replacements for the tie rod ends and tubes that won't cause a deduction. I was going to order all the parts from Dr. Rebuild.

[Joe L.]

Re: Replacing tie rod ends & Tubes

Are you saying as far as judging goes there are no replacements for the tie rod ends and tubes that won't cause a deduction. I was going to order all the parts from Dr. Rebuild.

Paul------


I don't know if these are judged, or not. All I can tell you is that all of the current replacements that I'm aware of are configured a bit differently than originals. It's not very hard to discern the difference. But, whether this is a judged item, as I say, I do not know. Many judges might not even know the difference, for all I know.

[Kent D.]

Re: Replacing tie rod ends & Tubes

Paul,

Take it back to the alignment shop and make them finish there job or refund your money.