TGIF!

I just replaced the front left outer tie rod end on my 97 Accord. The removal went well and installation was also pretty easy. My question is how tight should you make the outer top lock nut after installation?

I snugged it up pretty good with a 3/8 drive ratchet and socket but did not want to go super tight thinking the threads might strip as it is not a very big stud. Checking the torque, it's about 35 ft pounds, so wondering if that is good enough.

Took the car for several drives, with no issues.

Thanks!

 

As tight as you can get by hand. Torquing it really isn't necessary.

Your steering wheel stayed straight after replacing it? Typically you need an alignment after a tie rod end replacement.

 

You have to hold the tie-rod end and tighten the nut against the end, both w/ open-end wrenches. Hard to see how you could get a ratchet and socket, unless you mean a crow-foot socket.

It is difficult to get a lot of torque w/ open end wrenches and position is not easy either. 35 ft-lbs is about correct torque (33 ft-lb in FSM) so you're fine.

good luck

 

TH,

the inner rod end lock nut I tightened with 2 adjustable wrenches. The nut I am talking about is the one on the outer end, that uses the cotter pin and a 16 mm socket as I recall.

 

RR,

I know what you mean about the alignment, and plan on getting it checked as some shops offer free alignment checks. I marked and measured everthing really well, so it will be interesting to see how close it really is now.

 

Agree it is difficult to get torque set and cotter pin alignment simultaneously, however w/ the added safety of the cotter pin, there is no chance of accidental loosening.

good luck

 

Oooh, that nut...

I hit it with an impact but thats cuz I'm in a shop. A few snapped and stripped tie rods teaches you the sweet spot. But again, hand tight is just fine. With most things you just gotta tighten it until you dont have to put an unreasonable amount of force on it.

 

Thanks for the replies fellas, and it seems from the responses that I have got it snug enough. I can see where going a little too tight on this nut could result in stripping the threads easily.