Before you buy
- Exact fitment for year, drivetrain, axle and lift.
- A clear joint type, and a taper that matches your knuckle.
- Hardware included, and what grade it is.
- Install instructions and torque specs available.
- Warranty terms in writing.
When it arrives
- Clean, complete welds on any welded bungs or mounts. MotorTrend's custom build shows what good welds look like.
- Clean threads without damage, and jam nuts or clamps that fit.
- Boots intact, grease fittings present where specified.
- Cotter pins or locking nuts as the design calls for. TRW's guide includes missing cotter pins on its inspection list.
- Straight bar or tube with no dents.
After install
- Torque to spec, then recheck after the first drive as the maker directs.
- Get an alignment.
- Grease the joints as the maker says. TRW suggests purging old grease until clean grease appears.
Where this comes from
- MotorTrend: Building a custom tie rod and drag link
- TRW: Steering system maintenance guidelines (PDF)
- TRW: Linkage service information and hazard warnings (PDF)
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. General information only: your vehicle and part maker's instructions come first.