Hey Y'all,

A spin off from my truck getting fixed thread:

Swapped out my tie rod ends today. I know that I have to get an alignment now that they are new...but obviously can't do it till tomorrow. Is it safe to drive a little bit til i get it done or could it cause some damage? Talking like maybe 20-30 miles before I get it into the shop.

 

I would go straight to the alignment shop and drive it slow

if your alignment is off you could wear out a tire(s)
Worst case you can start said tire on fire
also putting a lot of stress on the wheel bearings

 

If you counted threads or marked where the original ones were and put the new ones in the same spot (provided you ensured they were the same length, you wioll be fine. I replaced mine and never did get it aligned. No abnormal tire wear, but knowing your OCD, you should probably get it aligned sometime soon for YOUR peace of mind...lol

 

I was just going to write this. I havent had mine aligned as of yet and I counted and also measured everything before hand. I do not get a pull in either direction.; however, I am watching the tires for abnormal wear. If I am at the shop for something else (inspection, warranty or whatever) I may have them check it for ****s and giggles...

 

(To keep it short)

Watched many Youtube "how to...tie rods" videos and used Haynes book.

Counted threads/rotations= Check

Measure/Compare Old & New= Check

Torque Tie Rod-Knuckle Bolt 55lb + Cotter Pin= Check

Using Dodgeforum.com as reference= Priceless

 

Ooh fancy, you had a cotter pin too?

Speaking of which I should crawl under the truck and just check to make sure the nut on the top side hasnt backed off any...

 

They all come with a cotter pin...and a castle nut so the nut will not back off. Did you buy yours at Walmart or something?

 

I wouldn't say they all come that way. My stock one didn't have a cotter and the Duralast one I replaced it with didn't either. Both had a Nyloc Nut.

 

Well butter my butt and call me a biscuit!!

 

Don't you be threatening me with a good time!