what is the difference between the inner ond outer tie rod? i only see one on each side. when i look at rock auto they have inner and outer's. the manual does not mention an inner or outer.

 

the inner tie rod goes into the steering rack, the outer end screws onto the tie rod and is connected to the wheel assembly. Don't know about Dakota's but the inners are a biotch and most require special tools to remove/install. The outer ones just screw on.

 

thanks for the explanation. would the inners come as part of the rack assembly? are they the weak link to the rack?

 

that i do not know. you can usually remove the inner ones from the rack.

 

Page 3590 of the Service Manual

A rack and pinion steering gears is made up of two
main components, the pinon shaft and the rack. Other
components are the outer tie rod ends (3&5), inner tie
rod ends (1&2), Mounting Bushings and the boots (4).
The gear cannot be adjusted or internally serviced. If
a malfunction or a fluid leak occurs, the gear must be
replaced as an assembly. The only serviceable component
on the steering gear is the outer tie rod ends
(3&5).

 

very nice...good on the spot explanation!

 

Well now I am not sure about my answer. MOOG makes inner tie rods. So maybe they are replaceable.

Part # EV800099

 

They can be. They were for me in the past, the 3 racks I replaced were all leaking at the inner end.