Can't adjust tie rod. Stuck?
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JK Freak
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 507
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From: Long Island, NY
Can't adjust tie rod. Stuck?
So I am guilty of not getting an alignment since I did it myself the last time 2 years ago. I know I need one I can feel and see its off.
As far as I remember, all I have to do on the stock tie rod Is loosin the sleeve on the driver side and adjust it from there. It seems to be rusted/stuck in place. I tried vice grips first no dice. Tried a 20" pipe wrench and felt like I was going to cause damage.
What should I do?
As far as I remember, all I have to do on the stock tie rod Is loosin the sleeve on the driver side and adjust it from there. It seems to be rusted/stuck in place. I tried vice grips first no dice. Tried a 20" pipe wrench and felt like I was going to cause damage.
What should I do?
JK Newbie
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 60
Likes: 0
From: Plaquemine Louisiana
I have the same issue. I am just waiting until I can get a new tie rod the n make the needed adjustments.
I have tried channel locks and a pipe wrench it doesn't budge. I do not experience any tire wear but I find it handles the road a little too much. I feel every groove in the road. From what I have read and been told is that reason that happens is from too much toe in.
I have tried channel locks and a pipe wrench it doesn't budge. I do not experience any tire wear but I find it handles the road a little too much. I feel every groove in the road. From what I have read and been told is that reason that happens is from too much toe in.
JK Freak
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 719
Likes: 0
From: Lakeland, Florida
Fire & Ice
After loosening the clamp, try prying it open a bit (just a bit). The last resort that always works for me is hot and cold. 
A small Benzomatic type propane torch from your local hardware store will do the job. Be careful not to burn or melt anything.
Heat the sleeve while putting a cool, damp rag on the rod end. That should be enough to break the corrosion grip.
A small Benzomatic type propane torch from your local hardware store will do the job. Be careful not to burn or melt anything.
Heat the sleeve while putting a cool, damp rag on the rod end. That should be enough to break the corrosion grip.
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 14,800
Likes: 373
From: Midwest City, OK
You've soaked it overnight in penetrating oil, haven't you? Give the oil a chance to work in. Use actual penetrating oil, not WD-40 (love the stuff, but for some things a heavier oil will do a better job). Believe it or not, the one sold by Chrysler is considered the best by many mechanics.
JK Super Freak
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,385
Likes: 0
From: Grant Florida
Use the rust penetrant of your choice let it sit for a bit and then use heat. I carry a plumbers torch on rides just for this reason. If you get one map gas gets hotter than propane so works better.
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JK Newbie
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
Try an actual tie rod adjusting tool / wrench. They spread the sleeve while you are turning it. Pipe wrenches and channel locks compress the sleeve while turning and make it harder. OTC makes a good set.
