New Tie Rod End Problem

[OkieGentleman]

I am in the process of rebuilding the front end on my 1998 Ranger with a 3.0 engine.

When I installed new tie rod ends and put them into the spindle the one on the passenger side went right in and tightened down properly.

When I put the tie rod end into the spindle on the drivers side it went so deep that when I tightened the tie rod end nut, the nut went way past the point where the cotter key is inserted to make it stay in place.

Unfortunately I have thrown away all of the parts that I removed from the front end to replace. I am trying to figure out if I have an incorrect part or a bad spindle?

Do to family obligations and my health, I have move the vehicle to my drive and will get back to it when the weather cools.

Any information will be helpful.

 

[pjtoledo]

inspect spindle for cracks, is the hole expanding as you tighten the nut? if no cracks are visible take both tie rod ends out and compare them. swap side to side if necessary to identify the bad one.

 

[OkieGentleman]

Thanks I had thought of that and will do it when the weather is better.