Drag link question
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Joined: Sep 2016
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Model: Cherokee
Drag link question
Ive read through many posts and google so forgive me if this has been beaten to death previously.
00 cherokee. Just replaced the TREs and ball joints. Should have done some more looking and upgraded the 1 ton on the cheap since I have all the tools to do it. Maybe next time. So heres where Im at - need to replaced the drag link. Is there a swappable drag link with adjustable tie rods at both ends? Some where I read the ZJ one was but I have found nothing to confirm unless it was an aftermarket deal. I can get one for a ZJ for $30 new.
However I found a straight bar drag link with 2 adjustable ends but not sure if the straight rod part will be an issue.
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Plain-...Ends,3306.html
My other option is making my own. Im a fabricator and amateur machinist. I figured I could use just get a new tie rod end, get some solid stock, and bend to the same as the old. Cut a slot at either end, tap it, and use the old clamp from the drag link - well one since Ill need a new one for at the spindle. Doing some research it seems a straight bar threaded to 7/8-18 left and right threading, and using GM truck TREs seems simple enough sans the expensive tap (might be able to borrow one). Ive read bout reaming the steering spindle - any advice on this? never done it
00 cherokee. Just replaced the TREs and ball joints. Should have done some more looking and upgraded the 1 ton on the cheap since I have all the tools to do it. Maybe next time. So heres where Im at - need to replaced the drag link. Is there a swappable drag link with adjustable tie rods at both ends? Some where I read the ZJ one was but I have found nothing to confirm unless it was an aftermarket deal. I can get one for a ZJ for $30 new.
However I found a straight bar drag link with 2 adjustable ends but not sure if the straight rod part will be an issue.
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Plain-...Ends,3306.html
My other option is making my own. Im a fabricator and amateur machinist. I figured I could use just get a new tie rod end, get some solid stock, and bend to the same as the old. Cut a slot at either end, tap it, and use the old clamp from the drag link - well one since Ill need a new one for at the spindle. Doing some research it seems a straight bar threaded to 7/8-18 left and right threading, and using GM truck TREs seems simple enough sans the expensive tap (might be able to borrow one). Ive read bout reaming the steering spindle - any advice on this? never done it
Last edited by Billy Bee; Mar 14, 2017 at 10:19 AM.
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Joined: Mar 2012
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From: Quebec
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
the ZJ upgrade is for the tie rod only, the drag link is the same or at least structurally the same, unlike the tie rod (hollow vs solid)
really not sure about the link you posted, i'd be inclined to say that replacing both the drag link and tie rod at the same time for a kit specifically made for an XJ would be better than getting that drag link, in case it doesn't fit or work properly. it also doesn't say for which truck/jeep it's made for, so if it's a "one size fits all" i'd stay away from it unless someone can confirm it fits an XJ
really not sure about the link you posted, i'd be inclined to say that replacing both the drag link and tie rod at the same time for a kit specifically made for an XJ would be better than getting that drag link, in case it doesn't fit or work properly. it also doesn't say for which truck/jeep it's made for, so if it's a "one size fits all" i'd stay away from it unless someone can confirm it fits an XJ
Last edited by Cane; Mar 14, 2017 at 10:27 AM.
