Inner tie rod end longer

2007 CHEVROLET COBALT

164,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

ERICH PETERSON

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34 POSTS
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I just replaced all inner and outer tie rod ends. I noticed that one of the new inner tie rods had like a 1/4 inch longer threads on the end that screws into the rack. The rest of the rod looked to be the same length as the old one. This meant the tie rod didn't screw all the way flush to the rack like the old one did. I installed it anyways. But wanted to check here before I go and get an alignment done if this is okay.

Thanks

Dec 13, 2021 at 6:16 AM

SQM

CERTIFIED EXPERT
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

So, this tie rod end was longer than the one it replaced?
If after thread in it is not on the same spot the old one, it might not work properly and the alignment could be severely off and depending on other adjustments, it might not be adjustable within specification for the alignment.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement

When you took off the old ones, did you mark the thread? Does the new one line up with the marks?

Let me know.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Dec 13, 2021 at 6:33 AM

ERICH PETERSON

MEMBER
34 POSTS

So, I didn't use a mark. I was counting the number of turns it took to remove the old outer tie rod, and then when putting on the new one screwed on the same number of turns. However, given that this new tie rod is longer, not sure if that method was sufficient.

Dec 13, 2021 at 7:00 AM

SQM

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6,383 POSTS

Got it. Counting the turns does work as well. But you will have to compensate for the extra length and figure out how many turns to cover the 1/4" of extra length.

Dec 13, 2021 at 7:32 AM