Inner Tie Rod question

[OkieGentleman]

I have replace the inner tie rods on my 1998 Ranger. Approximately 4.75 and 5.75 inches from the end of the tie rod are two machined grooves for two small metal rings that were included with the tie rods.

What are they and why do I install them on the tie rod? I have looked on the net and run questions trying to find an answer.

I am going to install the rings and put everything back together, but I sure would like to know what I installed and why I installed them!

Unfortunately for me I am a need to know guy, comes from 30 years of working on vaults and safes. Do it right the first time or drill it open later.

 

[adsm08]

If these are the spots I think they are there is a little lip on the inside of the boot that latches into that groove and then the clamp goes around the boot to make sure the boot stays put.

 

[OkieGentleman]

Thanks for the rely. I looked at the tie rods that came off and have come to the conclusion that the rings are installed into the grooves are to keep the end of the boot from sliding over them. The small end of the boot is pulled to the area between the installed rings, clamp is installed around the end of the boot and the clamped end of the boot is not supposed to be able to slide over the installed ring.