Tie rod question

[John Kuhnast]

i have a late 1931 closed cab pickup. I use an original model A grease gun. The grease fittings on my tie rod point toward the front. Also the tie rod end bolts are in front off the rod. I am unable fit the gun on the fittings due to conflict with the axel. If my information is correct the tie rod should be turned end for end for a 31 so that the fittings point toward the rear and the bolts are behind the rod with the nuts on the bottom. If this is correct I would like to turn it around. My concern is that the existing toe in is right on the money. If I remove the caps and cups, turn it around an reinstall without moving the ends on the rod will I be able to do this without upseting g the toe in. It would seem to me that this will work but I would like some conformation that Im not over looking something. Thanks gang.

 

[Patrick L.]

My fittings also face forward on the '31 and I believe that your right in that they should face the rear.. But, I think you'll find that you'll need to re-set the toe if you flop the tie-rod end for end..

 

[pat in Santa Cruz]

from Nov 30 on, grease fittings on the tie rod were pres in type, facing toward the rear. Prior to that, they were threaded, facing front. You will definitely have to re- set the toe if you move them.

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

I would mark an X on the front of the tire, then go to the other front tire and mark another X at an even inch mark. Now, count exactly the number of turns to remove the plug from each end of the tie rod and keep the parts with the same end and count the turns to screw each end back together after flipping the tie rod end for end. You should be right on, but double check by measuring the two X's and adjust as neccessary.

 

[John Kuhnast]

Thanks Tom. Im thinking that if I dont change the length by moveing the ends that it will not change. Ill do as you suggest. Thanks This is not the first time I followed your advise.