Tie Rod Ends
Steering systems on heavy-duty trucks are a combination of multiple components, some are intended to last the life of the vehicle, and some items are meant to be replaced over time. The tie rod ends are wear-items that will need to be replaced periodically and the truck realigned. Tie rod ends play a vital role in the way that the vehicle handles. Tie rods ends can be a significant contributor to tire wear if they are worn to the point of having excessive play.
Tie rod ends are used to connect the left and right steering knuckles together while allowing the suspension to move freely. A long internally threaded tie rod bar connects the tie rod ends together and spans the width of the vehicle while the short externally threaded tie rod ends allow for travel and toe adjustment. Tie rod ends feature a tapered stud on a ball and socket type joint, this taper interfaces with a tapered pocket in the steering knuckles. The ball and socket joint will allow the tie rod ends to change angles as the left and right-side wheels are at different heights and this joint is the wear point on the tie rod end. The taper should always be able to pivot freely, but any axial play (inward and outward) and the tie rod should be immediately replaced. Replacing both tie rod ends at the same time is recommended as they will wear at close to the same rate and the truck needs to be re-aligned whether one or both sides are replaced. If you change one and pay for an alignment, it is almost a guarantee that the other side will need replacement soon after and you will have to pay for an alignment all over again.