Tie Rod socket ball keeps on spinning...need help!

[crazychevyc10]

hey guys, so I just swapped out some springs and I have everything together but one of the tie rods keeps on spinning when I try to tighten the bolt. Anything I can do to hold the bolt from spinning so I can tighten the nut to it?

Thanks!

[TechVan]

Put a jack under the A-arm near the ball joint and lift the pickup. This should keep it from spinning.

[TBONE1964]

Originally Posted by crazychevyc10

hey guys, so I just swapped out some springs and I have everything together but one of the tie rods keeps on spinning when I try to tighten the bolt. Anything I can do to hold the bolt from spinning so I can tighten the nut to it?

Thanks!

I have had luck with a block of wood and a floor jack with some moderate pressure directly under the tie rod in question (assuming the nut is on the top).

That should hold enough pressure on it to be able to tighten the nut without the stud spinning.

Good luck,
Tom

[WIDESIDE72]

You might also need to use an air impact to tighten it quickly.

[70CHEVYBB]

just squeeze it with large channel lock pliers and hit it with an impact

[88Ironduke]

Have had this before. If you (you being me) or a P.O. used a hammer on the top of the castle nut to bust the tie rod loose it can cause one or more the legs on the castle nut to bend inwards and act as a really frigging good locking feature. Easiest option is to remove the nut and inspect for deformities. Run a tap thru castle nut, crank a proper sized bolt thru the nut or R2 the nut and/or tie rod end.... It may just be worn out...
In the past I have creatively used a 10" C-clamp to mash the tie rod into the spindle and hold while turning the nut. Sounds OK to get it together. It will suck even more when you take it apart next time. Trust me, the temp fix will haunt you when you least expect it.

Good luck.
88Ironduke