Tie Rod Washer Question

[n0c7]

I'm installing new inner tie rods and I'm having some trouble with the new washer. Is it better to bend this on tight and then install the inner tie rod, or are you supposed to put it on flat, tighten the new tie rod, then try somehow to bend the washer around the two notches? I've tried both without much success and one sore ass arm now. The furthest I got was one notch bent by using cutting plyers. I don't think this washer is a huge issue, but I don't want to risk losing my inner tie rod at high speeds.

 

[n0c7]

I had used Wret's guide on ITRE's, and here is his response regarding my question:

It's only possible to bend one side of the washer unless you drop the rack. But you should be able to do a good job on the one side. You really only need the washer to resist the amount of friction in the tie rod end as you turn the shaft. As long as you get it tight and at least get part of the washer bent around it, it's not likely it will loosen.

 

[jmakado]

I couldn't get mine to seat correctly either. I just tightened it to spec and crushed it in there. This was about 5k ago and I have had no problems with it loosening.

 

[n0c7]

I couldnt torque to spec, I just tightened them til I couldnt anymore. One more side to go...

 

[No_Skillz]

The more threads I read, the more I dread doing this job...

 

[n0c7]

The more threads I read, the more I dread doing this job...

It's really not all that bad except for limited clearance. When I had to do the tierods in my 95 Intrepid we had to remove the entire windshield wiper assembly and panels to get access, and the front of those cars are fairly long so you basically have to be slumped over or laying stomach down on the engine to do it.

If you have to do any other suspension maintenance I would do it at the same time as the tie rods as the more stuff you have out of the way the smoother the job will go. I had my axle and brakes removed, and both lower control arms disconnected allowing quite a bit of room. I didn't remove them for this job alone, I'm doing axle swaps on both sides. Good luck, follow Wret's guide and it will go just fine.