Description

Inner Tie Rod for the rack-and-pinion steering linkage.

The inner tie rod threads into the end of the steering rack and houses the inner ball joint, allowing the linkage to pivot as the wheels are steered and the suspension moves through its travel. It carries rack movement outward to the outer track rod end and on to the steering knuckle. The joint runs inside the rack gaiter and depends on it to retain grease and keep out water and grit, so a damaged gaiter should be replaced at the same time.

Wear at the inner joint gives steering play, knocking over rough surfaces and uneven tyre wear. Renew in axle sets where both sides have covered the same mileage, and have the wheel alignment checked after fitting.