So Fix it

A key element of handling a vehicles movement is its steering mechanism, which includes the tie rods. Through the years, steering has become easier to maneuver, but the mechanism within the car has evolved into many small, intricate parts.

Function

The inner tie rods of a steering system, or rack-and-pinion steering system, move the force of the steering wheel movement to the wheels to turn the vehicle. If they become faulty, steering can become difficult.

Significance

It is apparent when the inner tie rods need replacement by the feel of the steering wheel. If the steering meanders, feels unsteady, or if the tread on the front tires is wearing down unevenly, this could indicate worn-out inner tie rods.

Considerations

Be aware that noise coming from the rack-and-pinion system doesnt necessarily mean that it is the inner tie rods causing it. Inspect the system thoroughly to verify if this is the case, since many noise problems come from the entire movement of the rack assembly itself.

Nerf bars are used on race cars, pickups, sports utility vehicles, motorcycles and ATVs. The Nerf bars are usually made from a light to medium weight material such as stainless steel. Nerf bar netting is attached to the bar in a certain way so there is no shifting or moving while you are on or off the road. After attaching the netting, it is imperative that you burn the ends of the nylon netting to make sure it does not fall apart.

Instructions

1

Assemble your Nerf bar kit according to the kits instructions. Each manufacturers kit may vary in size, shape and installation instructions.

2

Position the Nerf bar netting so the pattern on the net lines up with the net tabs that are on the Nerf bars.

3

Grab the end of the netting and push it through the top slot on the net tab. Push the netting through and out the bottom slot.

4

Bring the netting up to the middle slot. Push it through the bottom of this slot and back up to the top slot.

5

Repeat steps two through four for all the net line ends on your Nerf bar. Adjust the tightness of your netting according to your personal perence.

6

Use a scissors to cut the excess ends of your netting. Make sure to leave 1 inch of netting on the ends.

7

Hold an end of the netting with needle-nose pliers. Use a lighter to burn the end of the netting. This will prevent the netting from fraying.

8

Repeat the previous step for all netting ends.

Tie Rods Must be Tight Enough to be Safe

A tie rod is a thin stuctural rod with a threaded end that connects the steering system to the wheels. The connection at the end of the rod (the tie rod end) should be at least as strong as the rod itself. After bolting the end of the tie rod you should have it at least tight enough to fit the cotter pin in the first hole ( about 25 to 30 pounds on a torque wrench) to prevent the bolt from coming loose.

Count The Threads

According to McLaines Tire and Alignment in Malone, New York, you should count the threads when removing the old tie rod and tighten the new one down to the same place. This means that your steering will have the same feel as before the job was done.

Bottom Line

A tie rod that is too tight will make your steering feel very sticky, and you will feel like you are wrestling with your car. A tie rod that is too loose means that you car will wander all over the road. 25 pounds on a torque wrench will give you fluid control without wandering off line.

Various types of structures that support tensile loads use tie rods. For example, vehicles, industrial electronics and static structures use tie rods, which are sometimes referred to as "track rods."

Definition

A tie rod is any bar-like structure supports moving parts on a machine, especially those bearing heavy loads. Rebar is a type of tie rod because of how it performs in concrete; however, rebar is not usually called a tie rod. Metal bars in general that are used in cement, stone and metal can be called tie rods. Tie rods prevent lateral movement.

Most Common Tie Rods

The most common tie rod is found in a vehicle. The tie rod is part of the steering mechanism and has an inner end as well as an outer end.

Other Uses

Tie rods stabilize structures, such as acting as an anchor to hold parts of buildings together. They are also part of wheels on a bicycle, a steam locomotive and a Ferris wheel.