Topic: Rugged Ridge Heavy Duty Tie Rod Kit - OPINIONS PLEASE

[jfrabat]

OK, so my rig got a new sound to go along with all the other ones.  This one started about a week ago, and I heard it when I turn the wheel from one side to the other.  At first I thought it was the power steering, but as it turns out, it's the tie rod assembly (complete with steering stabilizer and all) rotates about 10 to 15 degrees depending on the side you are turning to.  So I am guessing my rod ends are shot (the boots seem to be done for).   

I figured if I am going to invest in the steering, might as well beef it up a bit to protect against possible close encounters with rocks (like when crossing rivers), and this looked like an affordable option.

I wanted to know your opinions on (1) the product itself (especially if anyone of you is running one of these!), and (2) if this is something I can tacke myself...  I know the steering stabilizer some times is a PITA to take out, but since I replaced mine about a year ago, this should not be the case...

Felipe

[Jeffy]

Looks nice but I think the pict is for something else, probably a CJ.

[jfrabat]

Looks nice but I think the pict is for something else, probably a CJ.

Could be the pic is not the YJ model, but the description says YJ...

[neale_rs]

I have no experience with this brand but I have worked on my steering and it is pretty easy to do yourself.  Get a tie rod end puller and it will be as easy as can be.  Don't use hammers (maybe just a bit) and pickle forks, they just ruin the parts, tear up dust boots, etc. 

[oldjeep]

Here's a picture of their YJ setup. 
https://jeeperz-creeperz.com/imagemagic.php?img=ztHGytfsn%2BPa3ZOWm6KuoKKlmJLP09k%3D&w=1200&h=436&page=popup

[neale_rs]

Here's one I've always wanted to get:

http://www.rocky-road.com/yjott.html

[jfrabat]

Here's one I've always wanted to get:

http://www.rocky-road.com/yjott.html

When I was considering the SOA conversion, I was originally planning on using their SOA kit and this OTT.  But with SUA lift, I am afraid that the OTT would make everything go out of whack...  SO I ordered the Rigget Ridge one and will do the change myself instead.  At least it should be stronger than the stock draglink (granted that getting it out of the way is always better, but fo my purposes, this will most likely do fine) and should take care of my direction noises!

[aw12345]

For removing the tierod ends either a tierod puller orstriking the side of the arm with a large hammer works well.
You would strike the arm where the tierod stud goes through the arm, they will generally pop right out after a couple of good wacks works well and does not do any damage in case you want to reuse components

[jfrabat]

For removing the tierod ends either a tierod puller orstriking the side of the arm with a large hammer works well.
You would strike the arm where the tierod stud goes through the arm, they will generally pop right out after a couple of good wacks works well and does not do any damage in case you want to reuse components

I am not planning on reusing the components, but they may still be kept as backup (spare parts) for trail repairs in case I find a rock too stuborn to get out my the way of my jeep...  So, I will get a tie-rod puller (they are not that expensive anyway) and keep it in my toolbox (will also help for forementioned trail repair!).

Felipe

[oldjeep]

Just as easy to thread the nut part way off and smack it with a hammer.  As long as you leave 3/4 or better of the threads enguaged it doesn't seem to hurt the rod end.

[neale_rs]

Just as easy to thread the nut part way off and smack it with a hammer.  As long as you leave 3/4 or better of the threads enguaged it doesn't seem to hurt the rod end.

If you do this make sure you turn the nut over first.  I did this once and messed up the castelated part and then had to use another nut.

[jfrabat]

If I remember correctly, the tie rod remover was like $30 at Advanced Auto Parts; for this much, I rather not take chances and get the right tool for the job.  I have found that using the right tool saves you from a lot of headached down the line, so I rather invest on the tool and avoid the headache!

[oldjeep]

If I remember correctly, the tie rod remover was like $30 at Advanced Auto Parts; for this much, I rather not take chances and get the right tool for the job.  I have found that using the right tool saves you from a lot of headached down the line, so I rather invest on the tool and avoid the headache!

You may change your mind after you use one

[jfrabat]

You may change your mind after you use one

Oh, now I get the reasons for all the comments....  OK, I'll give the puller a shot and if it does not work, I will use the nut strategy.  Thanks!

[Jeffy]

I've used the beat it with a BFH method and that works alright.  I usually just use a gear puller though.  Either way is better then using the pickle fork.