Getting ready to order parts for steering linkage, have questions...

[RhainyC]

am getting ready to order the parts for my poor truck...but I am a bit confused. The shop that did the estimate didn't mention inner and outer tie rod ends...only *tie rod end*

On the LMCTruck site this pic shows the parts well in an exploded view...

http://www.lmctruck.com/pdfcatalogs/pdf/FR/0107.pdf

It looks Like I need to order Parts 1 through 6, we have the pitman arm already. Is that correct if I am replacing the whole steering linkage? (gods I must sound really stupid, but well...maybe I am )

And no I am probably not going to actually buy from, LMC, as I don't have enough money to spend without shopping around for the best value for the money.

I plan on replacing the left side as well, since she will be up in the air and torn apart. We also will be replacing the radius arm bushings while the truck is in the air.

Another thing I need to clarify is, I guess, should I also buy the adjusting sleeves new for the whole shebang? Or will my old ones work? Also, is it worthe putting the Steering Stabilizer Kit on? It isn't a lot of money if it really does what it says it does...

Gee can we tell who is a total NEWB to 4WDs?

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

There is one inner tie rod on the inverted Y steering linkage on your ranger, it connects the left outer tie rod to the drag link. The adjusting sleeves are pretty much always reusable just soak them a few times with some good penetrating fluid. Don't waste your money on a steering stabilizer, all it will do is mask problems and cause your pump to work harder. You don't need a stabilizer on a properly set up and function steering system.

 

[RhainyC]

Sasquatch, thanks, I guess I am confused by the names listed in the LMC catalog. It shows both have inner and outer tie rods ends...why do they do that to us? It has me totally confused...

Ok, so, let me try to think this through with your (and anyone else's guidance) Instead of the right hand having an *Inner* tie rod, that is the drag/center link? And the *outer* tie rod ends are the actual tie rods?

*scratching her head...but thinking she's finally got it....*

 

[4x4junkie]

The passengerside "inner tie rod" is actually called the Drag Link, yes (and is called that on LMC's page).

There's normally no reason to change the pitman arm though, it is not a wear item (only if you need more drop for a suspension lift, or if it's damaged in some way would it need to be changed).

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Ok, so, let me try to think this through with your (and anyone else's guidance) Instead of the right hand having an *Inner* tie rod, that is the drag/center link? And the *outer* tie rod ends are the actual tie rods?

*scratching her head...but thinking she's finally got it....*

Bingo! From pitman arm to outer tie rod on the passenger side knuckle is the drag link, from drag link to drivers knuckle is inner and outer tie rod ends.

Agreeing with Junkie on the pitman arm aswell, it would not need to be replaced unless it is bent.

 

[RhainyC]

Thanks both of ye's...

It is fine, as I actually took the truck in to a shop to see what exactly needed replacing. I trust the shop, but they are the place that charges an arm and leg and then some...just cause they can, but, they are good...

Well the adjusters are hopefully ok, but I am thinking since the right side was bent, I will replace that adjuster, just to be safe...and they aren't that spendy. Better safe than sorry.