tie rod

2006 CHEVROLET EXPRESS
95,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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PAPHER51
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  • 3 POSTS
I replaced an outer tie rod end on a 2006 chev express 1500 2 wd 6 cly and the original was 1/4 in longer which means the new did not thread on as far. It goes on 9 complete turns which is about 9/16 in. The original went on 14 turns or approx. 13/16 in
Aug 10, 2011 at 4:55 PM
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CARADIODOC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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It's common for two outer tie rod ends to be different lengths. New ones are just as likely to be longer as shorter than the original. Of more concern is even 14 turns is not much for the threads to stay securely engaged. 25 to 30 turns is typical.

Look at the number of exposed threads on the other side and compare that to your new one. It's possible the rack and pinion assembly is mounted off-center. I would not be comfortable driving with such little thread engagement.
Aug 10, 2011 at 5:36 PM
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CADIEMAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,544 POSTS
if the steering wheel isnt straight youll have to have the toe set.
Aug 10, 2011 at 6:02 PM
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PAPHER51
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The tie rod ends with 14 turns were the original and I agree, 14 is thin, but 9 is scary. Both sides are approx the same. Every thing has been fine for years till recently the tires started to wear on one side. Went in for an alignment and it has bad outer tie rod ends.
Aug 10, 2011 at 6:15 PM
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