Tie rod centering

[eric8]

A thought I’m pondering: how critical is it that the passenger side complete tie rod assembly be the same length as the driver’s side? The factory service manual states that equal threads must be showing on both inner and outer tie rod threads where they insert into the adjusting sleeve. This makes sense, to ensure equal thread engagement of the inner and outer rod into the sleeve.

But regarding overall length of each assembly as a side, should they be very close to equal and symmetrical? My passenger side rod assembly is roughly 16.25” and the driver’s is 16”. Steering gear at the rag joint looks very close to on center, with the tick mark just past 12 o clock when wheels are straight ahead. I took the nut off the steering wheel and the tick marks look very close. It *may be one spline off but it’s hard to tell.

But any effort to get the toe in correct, and keep equal tie rod lengths in the process will inevitably change the steering wheel position, correct? Hopefully this makes sense. This is on a 77 C10, 2wd of course.

[kglowacky]

I'm sure you will get better experts than me on this matter. I believe when you go to alignment shop they will set the steering wheel 1st at 12 o'clock. then adjust the tie rod ends to get it aligned while the steering wheel is locked in. My guess is when they lock in the steering wheel the tie rod ends will balance out (wihin reaason)unless you have something bent. Don't think different lengths of threads are a big deal. The threads are there for adjustment reasons. Good luck keep us updated when you get it aligned.

[kwmech]

Before alignment shop. Makes sure the steering box is centered with the center link installed so the larger taper is in the back. Eyeball each of the tires pointing straight. Take a measurement. Make up each link to that dimension as close as you can with equal threads. Install. Let the alignment shop do the rest. Different machining with different brands will not always be exactly the same, especially with a 50+ year old truck, don't sweat it.