I just finished the rack and pinion and i'm replacing the tie rod ends as well. I am having an issue with the tie rod ends. I can't find a tie rod end that has a long enough threaded end to attach to the knuckle. I got a set from a dealer and a set from checker. The ones from dealer were the closest but they are short by about an 1/8" or a little more. The problem is I can't get the threaded end through the knuckle far enough to get the nut to where i can push the pin through. Do i need to use a special to to knock the tie rod end in farther? or will a mallet do the trick? has anyone had a similiar issue with tie rod ends and think they can help? thank you