10 replies to this topic

[MinipixMatthew]

While replacing an upper ball joint a few weeks ago, my friend pointed out that I needed to replace my tie-rod end, as it was pretty knackered. In fact, he was surprised that Mr MOT hadn't picked up on it the week before. I have to admit I've not actually done anything about it since, I've just been driving around as normal.

Firstly, can someone explain what exactly it does? Haynes just about recognises that it exists, but that's about it. I always find it useful to know what things do before I go fiddling around with them!

Secondly, and more importantly, how urgent is it that I replace it? I mean, if I keep driving around with a dodgy tie-rod end, will the wheel eventually fall off? I fully intend on replacing it, but the urgency of it may determine how soon that happens! I also need to stop the engine from rocking (worn engine bushes), so that's on the to-do list as well. Incidentally, I don't suppose the two are connected at all?

Any help much appreciated! Ta

[Turbo Nick]

you cant replace the end of the tie rod? or do you mean the track-rod end? the piece that connects the steering rack to the hub with a ball joint on it?

[MinipixMatthew]

Erm.... not sure to be honest. I thought my friend said it was the tie-rod end that needed replacing, but from looking again at the tiny weeny diagram in my Haynes manual and remembering which bit my friend was pointing at and cross-referencing all that with your description above, I'm beginning to wonder if it's the track rod end. Which is which?? If it's something to do with the steering, I'm wondering whether driving around for the past couple of months has been altogether a brilliant idea...

[Jammy]

The tie-rod is the bar that goes from the front of the subframe to the bottom balljoint on the hub. The track rod end is the bit that screws on to the end of the steering rack and goes to the steering arm on top of the hub.

[AlexM]

Both are to do with steering.....If you are referring to "end" then its usually the track rod "end" this can wear as it is a ball joint. But you are correct in thinking it should have been spotted by the MOT.

A tie rod is the bar that connects the lower suspension arm to the front of the subframe. It can wear as it has rubber bushes on both sides of where it mounts in the subframe. Tie rods bend on occassion and this can cause steering problems. If the bushes are severly worn then the car could wander particuarly noticable when braking.

Tie rods can be difficult to replace as it involves splitting the bottom balljoint which often seizes and requires a large hammer to free it.

Track rod ends are more difficult to remove when worn as the nut will turn with the thread due to the free play in the ball joint. Again...big hammer....patience....cups of tea......etc.

[blacktulip]

the track rod ends are not that hard to replace. if the locking nut is siezed then use some penetrating fluid and leave overnight, then get some decent grips and a decent spanner and undo the locknut. once the nut is undone the track rod end will screw off. make sure once replaced u get the tracking re aligned or u will wear your tyres out and will drive very badly in the wet.

[Jammy]

Quite a number of steering racks have two flats on the threaded rod which allow you to hold it in place with a spanner whilst you undo the locknut.

[1984mini25]

And count the number of turns it takes to remove the track rod end and then wind on your new replacement the same amount, It won’t be spot on but will mean that the wheels point in the right direction, And makes setting the tracking up properly much easier.

if the locking nut is siezed then use some penetrating fluid and leave overnight,

Or if you haven’t got all day carefully apply some heat to the nut

[midridge2]

what makes your mate think the track rod end is shot as you said it had just passed its test and its strange for the tester to miss that.
i would find some one with some knowledge to check it for you as it would be a shame to replace it and it was ok.

[MinipixMatthew]

Well he said he could turn it by hand, and from looking at the pics on MiniSpares I reckon it's the track rod end that's in need of replacement. I will check with him quickly at some point, but I think that's what it is. Thanks everyone for explaining the difference, you've all be very helpful!

[Jammy]

Turn what by hand? I'm starting to think they probably don't need replacing...