Confused with ordering tie rod ends!
 

My left/driver tie rod is shot. There is a right hand thread and a left hand thread. Does this mean that the right hand thread is clockwise when one screw it in and counter clock wise for the left hand thread? I know I could order the entire assembly, but I only need the driver side tie rod end on the outside. Trying to save some money.

Thanks,

John

That is correct ..
The reason for the two thread directions is so you can shorten/lengthen the rod for toe adjustment when it is mounted on the car by simply turning the center connecting rod. This would be the same principle as a hardware store Turnbuckle..

You are the only one that make that decision...you need to look at them closely..they can be mounted either way.

Are the tie rod assembly interchangeable from right to left? Are they different in length?

John

Year/Model ???????

Just curious, how do you know when they (tie rod) are shot???

The tie rod ball would have play in it (looseness), if it shot.

It is for 86 420 sel.

It is not really shot. The rubber boot has been torned for a while. Since I am doing a lower ball joint job and front end job, I just want to replace it while I am in there. I finished the track/guide rod on both side recently. I am almost finished, just have to put the coil spring and brake calipers back on.



John