Tie rod ball joint nut sizes

[Steve L.]

The threads on these joints on both end of the tie rod are 7/16-20. However, the nuts on the relay rod take a 11/16 wrench while the steering arm end take 5/8 wrench.

Other than maybe for a quick way of identifying which end is which, what is the reason for the difference in wrench sizes?

[Rich P.]

Re: Tie rod ball joint nut sizes

5/8" came from the factory 11/16" was replacement.

Rich

[Steve L.]

Re: Tie rod ball joint nut sizes

Rich,
Are you sure about this. I don't remember replacing any of these components.

I wouldn't have replaced these unless the steering was loose. I'm sure I would have remembered if the steering was loose.

[Rich P.]

Re: Tie rod ball joint nut sizes

I know for sure that is how it was on 63-69's and I don't think they changed it for 72 someone else might chime in here to correct me if I'm wrong. But from your discription that is typical matinence on a car the outers wear faster than the inners and need replacing sooner.

As a side not the castle cut out on original 5/8" nuts are square on the bottom service replacemnts are round.

Rich

[Steve L.]

Re: Tie rod ball joint nut sizes

I'll check the bottom of the nut cut-outs tonight to see if they are square or round.

[Steve L.]

Re: Tie rod ball joint nut sizes

Alan,
I've checked the bottom of the slots on the castle nuts - they are all square cut.

BTW, the 5/8inch nuts are located at the steering arm, not the relay rod side.

In any case, after cleaning, I'm putting everything back the way I found it and investigate this further after I get the body back on.