What Is a Tie-Rod on a Truck and What Happens If It Goes Out?
by Craig Woodman
A vehicle's steering and suspension is one of the most critical safety components of the vehicle, and it is important to keep all components of this system in top condition. Tie-rods are a key part of this system, and are responsible for transmitting the forces you input through the steering wheel to the front wheels, allowing you to change vehicle directions.
Function
A tie-rod connects, or "ties," the front wheels of the vehicle together so they both turn from left to right at the same time. One side connects to the steering knuckle, while the other side either directly connects to the steering gear or is attached with other linkages. The tie-rod assembly often is made up of an inner and outer tie-rod, which are joined by an adjusting sleeve. The sleeve allows for the length of the tie-rod assembly to be changed when necessary for correct wheel alignment.
Location
A tie-rod is located on the front end of the vehicle, usually directly under the engine compartment. Most vehicles have both a left and right tie-rod, but some vehicles only have one tie-rod, connecting both the left and right sides. This single tie-rod assembly connects to the steering gear through other linkage. Some vehicle's have rear tie-rods, but it is rare on trucks, which usually have a solid rear axle.
Failure
Complete tie-rod failure can be catastrophic, resulting in the complete loss of steering control. Most of the time, failure is gradual, with the tie-rods exhibiting movement in the tie-rod ends, or the flexible socket that allows for movement and pivoting while steering. The movement grows progressively worse, until the tie-rod end separates. This separation can be sudden and brought on by impact with a road hazard such as a pothole or curb. As the tie-rod becomes worse, wheel alignment changes, and your vehicle exhibits increased tire wear or strange tire wear patterns. Erratic vehicle handling, shaking or vibration while driving also may be present.
Diagnosis
Most tie-rods can be inspected with the vehicle's suspension unloaded, or with the wheels hanging free while the vehicle is on a jack. Grasp the tie-rod near the end where it attaches to the knuckle, and attempt to move it up and down. The connection should be tight, without movement. Manufacturer's specifications define how much movement is allowed, but the tolerances for movement are minimal. Generally, if you can feel movement, the tie-rod should be replaced.
Prevention
Have your vehicle's steering and suspension inspected on a regular basis to ensure the tie-rod assemblies are tight. If the tie-rod ends are equipped with grease fittings, make sure they are greased at every service. Do not fill the tie-rods with so much grease that the boots protecting the connection break, as this can allow contamination that leads to premature failure.
Writer Bio
Craig Woodman began writing professionally in 2007. Woodman's articles have been published in "Professional Distributor" magazine and in various online publications. He has written extensively on automotive issues, business, personal finance and recreational vehicles. Woodman is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in finance through online education.
