:  Apr 26, 2004



Steering Linkage Component Location



1  - Steering gear
2  - Steering gear boot
3  - Tie rod
4  - Locknut
5  - Tie rod end
6  - Ball joint
7  - Self-locking nut

GENERAL

The steering linkage comprises the tie rod which provides the connection between the steering gear and the front wheel knuckle.

Each end of the steering gear has a threaded hole which provides for the fitment of the tie rods. The external ends of the tie rods are sealed with steering gear boots to prevent the ingress of dirt and moisture into the steering gear.

The outer ends of the tie rods are threaded to allow the fitment of the tie rod ends. The tie rod ends are screwed onto the tie rods and locked with locknuts to prevent inadvertent movement. The thread on the tie rod allows the position of the tie rod end to be adjusted in order to set the correct toe angle for each front wheel.

The tie rod end comprises a forged housing with a threaded bore for attachment to the tie rod. The tie rod end incorporates a non-serviceable tapered ball joint which locates in a tapered hole in the front wheel knuckle and is secured with a self-locking nut. The ball joint has an internal hexagonal drive which enables the joint to be held stationary when the self-locking nut is tightened.