What causes an outer tire rod end to keep loosening back up after been torqued using a torque wrench?

2002 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
3,000 MILES • 2.2L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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BIH2022
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  • 1 POST
What would cause an outer tire rod end to loosen back up after you torque it with manufacturer recommend torque? It does good for week or so, then slowly starts loosening back up and driving more and more awkward. then you just have to jack the car back up and tighten the tire rod end up again. even after having front end alignment it still works back loose.
Jul 24, 2022 at 1:01 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

That is a very good question. If you are torquing it to spec, it shouldn't come loose. Have you tried using Loctite?

If you haven't, that is what I would recommend. Also, the tie rod should have a castle nut and cotter pin. Take a look at the pic below and let me know if that is what you have.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Jul 24, 2022 at 10:24 PM
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