Quick Overview
- When the nut is tightened, the lock washer digs into the bolt and the nut, creating a friction fit that helps to prevent the bolt from spinning.
- When the bolt is tightened, the thread locker dries and forms a strong bond between the bolt and the nut, preventing the bolt from spinning.
- The cost to fix a loose tie rod bolt will vary depending on the severity of the problem and the make and model of your vehicle.
A loose tie rod can cause a variety of problems, including poor handling, uneven tire wear, and even a loss of control. In most cases, a loose tie rod is caused by a spinning tie rod bolt. This can happen due to wear and tear, corrosion, or improper installation.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of a loose tie rod, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to try to keep the tie rod bolt from spinning.
6 Ways to Keep Tie Rod Bolt from Spinning
1. Use a Lock Washer
A lock washer is a thin, split washer that is placed between the nut and the bolt. When the nut is tightened, the lock washer digs into the bolt and the nut, creating a friction fit that helps to prevent the bolt from spinning.
2. Use a Nylock Nut
A Nylock nut is a nut that has a nylon insert that grips the bolt when it is tightened. This helps to prevent the bolt from spinning, even if the nut is not fully tightened.
3. Use a Thread Locker
Thread locker is a liquid that is applied to the threads of the bolt. When the bolt is tightened, the thread locker dries and forms a strong bond between the bolt and the nut, preventing the bolt from spinning.
4. Use a Jam Nut
A jam nut is a second nut that is tightened against the first nut. This creates a double-nutted effect that helps to prevent the bolt from spinning.
5. Use a Cotter Pin
A cotter pin is a small, U-shaped pin that is inserted through the hole in the bolt. The ends of the cotter pin are then spread apart, creating a lock that prevents the bolt from spinning.
6. Weld the Bolt
In some cases, it may be necessary to weld the bolt to the steering knuckle. This is a permanent solution that will prevent the bolt from spinning, but it is also the most difficult and expensive option.
How to Tighten a Tie Rod Bolt
If you’re replacing a tie rod bolt, it’s important to tighten it to the correct torque. The torque specification for your vehicle can be found in the owner’s manual.
To tighten a tie rod bolt, you will need a torque wrench and a socket wrench.
1. Place the socket wrench on the nut and tighten it until it is snug.
2. Attach the torque wrench to the socket wrench and tighten the nut to the specified torque.
3. Once the nut is tightened, use a cotter pin or a lock washer to secure it.
How to Prevent Tie Rod Bolt from Spinning in the Future
There are a few things you can do to prevent the tie rod bolt from spinning in the future.
- Use high-quality bolts and nuts.
- Apply thread locker to the threads of the bolt.
- Use a lock washer or a Nylock nut.
- Tighten the nut to the correct torque.
- Inspect the tie rod bolt regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Wrapping Up: How to Keep Tie Rod Bolt from Spinning
By following these tips, you can help to keep your tie rod bolt from spinning and ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive.
Basics You Wanted To Know
How do I know if my tie rod bolt is spinning?
There are a few signs that your tie rod bolt may be spinning, including:
- A loose or rattling tie rod
- Uneven tire wear
- Poor handling
- A loss of control
What are the dangers of a loose tie rod bolt?
A loose tie rod bolt can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Poor handling
- Uneven tire wear
- A loss of control
- An accident
How much does it cost to fix a loose tie rod bolt?
The cost to fix a loose tie rod bolt will vary depending on the severity of the problem and the make and model of your vehicle. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for parts and labor.