Tie-Rod Ends

[reno]

What is the best way to change Tie-Rod Ends on a 93 Ranger 4x4?

Is it just count the number of turns it takes to remove, then turn same amount of turns to place the new one?

I know if I measure the backside of the tires to the front side, that the fronts should be about a quarter inch less for a close (eyeball) alignment, but if there is a better way of removing\replacing and straightening the tires, please do tell.


-=Reno=-

 

[88mudder]

before u take the old tie rod off, count the number of threads that are left where it screws into the adjuster. Simply screw the new tie rod in until there's the same number of threads as the old one had.

 

[MAKG]

The count-the-turns method works, and it can be rather precise at reproducing what was there before. But you really should realign the truck when replacing TREs, as the previous alignment might have been done on a worn TRE. Or if it's been a while, they do drift some (rule of thumb is 6 months to get out of spec).

Reno, that truck is a real POS, isn't it? It seems you're doing everything to it.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I did the count the turns method with my '85, it drives just as straight as my F-150 does now. I knew that it hadn't had an alignment in at least the six years before I changed them, I guess I lucked out.

 

[reno]

The count-the-turns method works, and it can be rather precise at reproducing what was there before. But you really should realign the truck when replacing TREs, as the previous alignment might have been done on a worn TRE. Or if it's been a while, they do drift some (rule of thumb is 6 months to get out of spec).

Reno, that truck is a real POS, isn't it? It seems you're doing everything to it.[/QUOTE]

Well the bigger tires over the years and previous owners abuse\ no maint has taken its toll. I just about have it where I want it. TRE are just starting to show wear, and the left one has a torn boot that I found when I greased them, so Torn boot=replace ASAP or you will be sorry.