Track Rod End Failure with potential fatal consequences!

[S2 Ant]

My tramlining was down to the track rod end not being in properly at the end and was moving up and down causing the movement.

This part fits other cars of similar era, so ALL Audi 80's, 90's, Passat etc

[Rusty]

The thread was an M10x1mm pitch from memory and so I had to buy new nylon lock nuts as the old ones didn't fit.

Old thread

[S2 Ant]

Yeh thats correct Andy, i was hunting for a die to see if i could re-thread the things, it just seems to be a very fine thread for something which could probably do with being a bit stronger and thicker.

It just seems the metal on the track rod end itself is too soft, or the nut is or both.

My nuts i got as i ordered them at the same time as the track rod end itself, or rather my mate got them, hes good at spending our money for us lol, ask him for a part and he orders it along with anything within 12 inches of it as well just incase LOL!

[Azman]

Guys. On the subject of this, I have a rather strong Left hand pull so went to get the car tracked the other day. Both adjusters have seized. Can I replace just these parts or do I need to do the whole track rod/steering rod? I have been told two different stories and have three wildly different prices. Pointers please (especially after what you guys have been saying in this thread)

Cheers

Aaron

[rotoryboy]

This may be of help

[S2 Ant]

You can buy the arms and you can buy the ends, but the threaded part that joins the 2 isnt listed as being available, annoying really as ive had to use a file to get some shape back on my adjusters as they were so badly rounded.

Guess it may be possible to get something similar from somewhere else perhaps?

[Azman]

Cheers Boys, I have just found a place that says they can get the adjuster section ( 2 nuts and adjuster thread) for £10 each. Will get a pair thake a photo and see what you think.

Keep ya posted

Aaron

[Azman]

Ordered will be here tomorow evening!!!!!

[Azman]

Ordered will be here tomorow evening!!!!!

Lts just hope they are the right part and I can get the old ones off. Wire brush and lots of WD 40 / Brake cleaner here we come!!!!!!

[S2 Ant]

Can you let me know if they match, as i will be wanting to order a pair as well seems mine are knackered and ive not refit my new track rod ends yet.

Ta

[rotoryboy]

In fact if they are the right ones ask him for a deal as everyone on here will buy 2

[S2 Ant]

As far as i know the thread is the same on both sides of the adjuster part and the track rod end is the same for all Audi 80's so fingers crossed it should be fine

And as Mark said, i should think most will want a pair, i know i def do! Esp if delivery is that quick!

[Azman]

I know they have some in stock. How many I don't know. I will post the pics up tomorow and you guys can ask questions. Is there any easy way to change the ends or would it be simpler to remove the arm and go from there. Mine are really seized with the usual poo and I we couldn't move them a mm when trying to adjust?

HAs anyone else ever had their tracking that far out. I mean 16mm is a mile in tracking terms isn't it.

[S2 Ant]

16mm is miles and miles out hard to believe it could possibly get that far out without something being largely bent!

I would suggest its probably easier to change them off the car, as if they are seized on or odd shaped, you can apply lots of heat and use a vice, on the car all you'll do is lose lots of skin from your knuckles lol.

That said, ive not seen your engine bay, the 3B has the battery in the way of what would be a huge expanse of space on the ABY where you would access the rack to unbolt the arms, not sure how accessible it would be for you.

[Azman]

Not got a 3B yet, that is why I am doing the tinkering now so that when it goes in all is sweet. Still only got a 7A in so still the same problem. DOH!!!!!! My friend down at Quick Fit may be able to help though. Cheers

Aaron