tie-rod end cotter pin

[Bank of SHO]

Is it okay to reuse this cotter pin, or should I find a new one?

 

[SHO_Driver]

Always better to put a new one on but I have reused a pin or two if they weren't too weak. wink

 

[Bank of SHO]

Okay thanks. Is there a size or part number for them?

 

[shojuan]

Bank of SHO:
Okay thanks. Is there a size or part number for them?

Go to a good hardware store or an autoparts store and get an assortment. Then dig through and pick the closest sized cotter pin. Some places sell cotter pins in individual sizes, but usually you'll just find them in assortment packs.

 

[rangerj]

Bankofsho,

Are you willing to risk your life for a $0.20 cotter pin? I am not trying to be a wise guy.
The cotter pin is used as a safety item and should be replaced.

You do not want a tie rod to come loose from the steering knuckle at any speed. The result will not be pretty! rangerj

 

[Bank of SHO]

Not trying to be cheap at all. I am completely ignorant about cars. Every project I've done and am currently working on is a new learning experience for me. Thanks to this forum, I'm willing to try. thumb

Thanks for your concern ,
Tom

 

[masho95]

I've run my SHO for a while without any cotter pins on the tie rods. Obviously it's there for a reason and should be reinstalled (at the least) or replaced, but I've never heard of a crown nut backing off and causing the tie rod end seperating from the knuckle. It's there for your safety and should be either replaced or reinstalled.

 

[rangerj]

Bank of Sho,

Just for the record, we are all in the learning phase. It never ends.

The crown, or castle nut, that holds on the tie rod end should be torqued to specification.

I use Fords middle of the specification, say for example Ford specifies 23 to 25 foot pounds, I would use 24 foot pounds, and then tighten the nut so that the cotter pin hole lines up with the nut slot.

Use of a cotter pin for safety is critical. Use of a new one is wise (and cheap insurance).

I hope that you did not infer that I was calling you cheap. That was not intended. rangerj

 

[Bank of SHO]

No offense taken at all. I know next to nothing, so I'm not afraid to ask silly questions. I'm grateful to all of you who are willing to answer even the most rudimentary questions.