Tie Rod: Description and Operation

Tie Rods and Joints





Major Components

The steering linkage consists of tie rods, inner ball joints and outer tie rod ends and are used to convey the steering movements of the steering rack to the vertical link. The inner ball joints are part of the power steering rack assembly.

Concertina type gaiters are installed between the rack housing and tie rods to retain lubricant and prevent the ingress of foreign matter. They also permit lateral steering movement of the rack and arced movements of the ball joints during suspension operation.

The tie rods are threaded at their ends to accept the ball joints and outer tie rod ends and to provide toe adjustment. Jam nuts are used to secure the tie rod ends to the tie rods.