<Nerd>
Ok, so, I was maneuvering the Shuttlecraft Intrepid off of it's docking pad and executed a "hard starboard" when I heard a metallic bang-pop - afterwhich I lost navigational control.
A level 1 diagnostic revealed the navigational control rods had separated from their junction point...
</Nerd>

Now I've only had the '96 Intrepid for about a year, and my last car was an 87 Buick Century (rust in peace, old friend), so I'm having to learn some of these "Dodge-isms" (the Dodge way of doing things).





I found this picture and it looks alot like what I have.

Am I correct that this picture shows the "inner tie rods"? I'm not used to having the R&P so high up.

If so, they seemed to have ripped right out of the "Main Rod" (shown) when I was pulling out of my spot (I turned the wheel "right" and it popped just before it maxed out turning).

So my questions are:

Is this something that just happens?

Is the R&P COMPLETELY trashed and need to be replaced? (F.U.B.A.R.)

What can I do to prevent this from happening in the future?

Can this be fixed with Heli-Coils, JB Weld, that kneaded epoxy clay, ty-wraps, velcro, hose clamps, duct tape, or any other hack job? (I'm assuming the threads are ripped)

I also assume the "outer tie rods" are at the other end of those control rods and lock in near the top of the tire. (those look like my idea of a tie rod, albeit a bit high up)

As far as the fix, even if the bolts get PERMANENTLY stuck in there, I don't mind hacking off the bolt heads when it comes time to change the R&P later.

I live in the "Rust Belt" (Chicago) So I have plenty of junk yards if I need something.

If I have to change the R&P, what else should I change "while I'm in there and have everything ripped apart"? Is there anything I should fix/upgrade right out of the box?

What are "bushings" in relation to this R&P. I have heard that term used often (and often with disdain).

I have also experienced "tramlining"** on some roads with heavy truck traffic ruts. It has been like this since I got it. My car would rock side to side when I hit them, almost like a bowling ball in the gutter. Was this an indication of this problem, or is this just how Intrepids handle?

**The term "tramlining" is being used to describe when directional control is disrupted by the vehicle's tendency to follow the longitudinal ruts and/or grooves in the road. It's name could be compared to the tram or trolley driver who does not steer because his vehicle follows the path established by the tracks.

I have not done anything as of yet, I did try turning the wheel back and forth when it first happened, so from what I've read, I assume the alignment is shot.

Thanks in advance for any help or advice.

 

If the bolts ripped out of the rack, replace it. The bushings are inthe eylets of the inner tie rod ends and are cheap parts but a bit of a pain to change. While changing the rack, they need to be replaced that is assuming the inner tie rods aren't shot after the malfunction.

As for handling, the car shouldn't have acted that way. My 97 is tight as a drum and steers great. It was a bit sloppy when my bushings were worn though.