So, long story short after replacing both outer tie rod ends to cure some WoF failing play on my Panther, which uses Mk4/5 Cortina steering/suspension in the front, I can now see and feel significant play in the driver side inner tie rod joint.
So, I jump online and do a google to see parts availability before I take it apart. nothing.It's like they just don't exist.Outer ends, no problem dime a dozen, inners - nothing.
I've looked in the Camalot/Transteering catalog (http://www.georgestock.co.nz/- catalogue/CAMELOT/CAMELOT.htm)- which is the brand of the outers I just fitted, and they don't list inners for the Cortina at all.
Can anybody in the industry tell me what I'm missing here - are these really hen's teeth parts, or is there some equivalent or something!
Arn't the inner joints adjustable! Just a nut that does up and locks with a pin to set the tightness of the joint! Thats how my escort ones are.
bitsy_boffin,
Aug 22, 5:31pm
Maaaaybe.Supposedly the lock ring adjusts the load, but to do it (or remove the rod at all), you have to drill out a pin, tighten, drill a new hole, and insert new pin at the minimium (and naturally Haynes says "start by fitting a new spring and ball seat"), so whatever the case, some new parts are in order.
jasoo,
Aug 22, 5:34pm
I wouldnt worry about the new parts, just do her up ;)
treachug,
Aug 22, 5:41pm
No, but send an email to them, make it attention Craig & I - ooops I mean he will try to see what he can find for you.
unclejake,
Aug 22, 5:43pm
Was Mk4 a rack or recirculating ball steering! I stopped looking after Mk2 :-)
If your car has a steering box with pressed in place inner joints - you may need to search for a replacement drag link.
treachug,
Aug 22, 5:45pm
Mk4 would have been a rack & pinion type with adjustable tie rods. The replacement type tie-rods will the non-adjustable captive style - for ease of replacement
ladatrouble,
Aug 22, 6:02pm
Adjustable inner rack end and oil filled rack - one of the reasons they didn't wear out like modern rack ends, and why old cars have oil leaks.
bitsy_boffin,
Aug 22, 6:40pm
Thanks jasoo, treachug, ladatrouble, you're all correct they are adjustable and now adjusted just like new.Well, see how long they last anyway.
pfemstn,
Aug 23, 2:44pm
we used to drill the nut where it butted up and pin them. have to sometimes drill the pin out before undoing,! any way youve fixed it now!
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