track rod end

[stuffedpike20]

I replaced the off side track rod end and now the steering wheel is out...down on the right hand side.

On replacing the track rod end, I did not disturb the position of the lock nut on the end of the steering rack, but the new track rod end must be a bit longer than the old one.
Can I rectify the situation by slackening off the lock nut and screwing the end of the steering rack into the new track rod end until the steering wheel is level again?

Thanks.
John

[philthehill]

No
You need to centralise the steering wheel and then set the track.
You may have to adjust both track rod ends to get the tracking right.

[Bill_qaz]

Yes you can thread on further
I purchased replacements and they were longer than the original, so had to clean up thread and screw on further to set tracking correctly.
viewtopic.php?t=76434

[stuffedpike20]

Thanks both.

Is there an easy way to set the tracking, or is it a garage job?

[philthehill]

It is a relatively easy job to set the track but if you have not done it before I would leave it to the garage to do.
The tracking setting is 3/32" (2.5mm) toe in.
See Section J7 of the BMC workshop manual for details of how to set the tracking.

[Bill_qaz]

There has been lots of discussions on the forum if you search.
Personally I did mine with axle stands with string stretched between. Parallel string to rear wheel rims and measuring to front and rear of front rims, after centralising the rack.
Works for me but to each their own. As Phil says if you are not confident or experienced leave to a garage or tyre shop.

[stuffedpike20]

Thanks both.

[philthehill]

The track alignment gauge in the link below is a useful bit of kit
You will most likely pay at least the purchase price of the track alignment gauge if you take the car to the garage.
Once purchased you can check the track alignment as many times as you like.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/182016390664 ... R_yn8_yHZA

[Myrtles Man]

Here's a tutorial on using string for wheel-alignment; there's plenty of others on Youtube and it's easy enough to do if you take your time and a bit of care:-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwiSkB9dGTk

[stuffedpike20]

Thanks folks.