Tie rod thread size

[foxface]

Hi
After fitting a steering rack, the ball joint on one side gets hard to screw onto the tie rod, the lock nut goes on no problem and I can see the tie rod thread looks rough. Anyone know the tie rod thread size and what might be used to improve the thread condition

[xvivalve]

The thread size is 1/2" UNF.

You could get a 1/2" UNF die to clean up the thread, but given the locknut goes on easily I'd suggest it's the internal thread in the tie rod end that is at fault and may have compromised the thread on the tie rod. If the damage is superficial you might be able to use the locknut itself lubricated with thin machine oil to reinstate the thread using a two flats forward one flat back technique, but that might destroy the locknut as well.

[foxface]

Thanks for the reply, I will source a die and try that first

[cliftyhanger]

Hi
After fitting a steering rack, the ball joint on one side gets hard to screw onto the tie rod, the lock nut goes on no problem and I can see the tie rod thread looks rough. Anyone know the tie rod thread size and what might be used to improve the thread condition

Have you tried the other ball joint on that end? and vice versa.
You can buy a die to reform a thread, as opposed to recutting. A bit more gentle....