[tow rig]

Im about to make one with an old track bar , a peice in .25 wall tubing, a weld in bung. Im debating if I should use another tie rod end, or use a heim joint and drill out the hole?

 

[ghostman]

Dont use a heim joint in single shear situation, that's why they used a tie rod end/ball joint.

 

[Speedfrak78]

Dont use a heim joint in single shear situation, that's why they used a tie rod end/ball joint.

Could you elaborate a little more? I'm not understanding how one is better than the other. If anything I would think a properly sized heim would be beefier? I do know that heim joints in steering linkages can cause issues with some state DOT.

 

[tow rig]

I've seen some aftermarket bars come with a heim joint. I agree that without making it a double shear, it could snap a grade 8 bolt. Plus once you drill the taper out of the hole theres no turning back. Any idea what size tie rod end that would be?

 

[ghostman]

Here's a link with pictures to explain double vs single shear.
http://coefs.uncc.edu/mwhelan3/files/2010/10/ICD_Single_V_Double_Shear.pdf

The only reason the use tie rods in single shear is because they're a tapered pressed fit. Heim joints aren't. I'm not saying don't use a heim on both ends, just do it right and build the correct bracket.

 

[tow rig]

indeed sir! we certainly don't want that failing.

 

[Speedfrak78]

The only reason the use tie rods in single shear is because they're a tapered pressed fit. Heim joints aren't. I'm not saying don't use a heim on both ends, just do it right and build the correct bracket.

That was a simple explanation, i like pictures..:drool2:..lol. Double shear also stabilizes the load on a fastener, rater than trying to "twist" around the single point of attachment.

What are the mechanics behind a tapered fit being better than a bolt? More surface area? Is the taper designed to equalize the force acting on it ( IE: the taper angle makes forces perpendicular to the load being applied) where a straight bolt would be trying to in the bore under single shear?

And with a quick search I answer my own question...http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/131-1306-steering-you-straight-heim-joints-vs-tie-rod-ends/

They actually hit a little on "safer" ways of mounting single shear, but don't recommend it..

 

[tow rig]

a fine explanation!

 

[tow rig]

Anybody know what size tie rod end I would need to get to fit the factory hole?

 

[Mojave Magic]

You can get a cheap set of calipers and measure the stud taper on the current bar and compare to this Moog chart linked below. File is safe, I just uploaded it now.

http://s000.tinyupload.com/index.php?file_id=00822976012889414239

 

[tow rig]

thats awesome, thanks man! Which part do I measure from?