I need to replace some tie rod ends in my steering and I was wondering if I should just replace the whole tie rod with something stronger. I know there are stronger aftermarket versions available, and I have heard you can use a ZJ tie rod as well. Which one is the way to go? Rusty's is 1.50", .25" wall DOM tubing and Iron Rock's uses 1.25 solid bar. Is the ZJ tie rod anywhere near as strong as either of these or is it not even close?

I don't plan to do really hardcore wheeling in my XJ so I probably don't need the strongest thing out there, but it seems like the tie rod is located right where it could hit an obstacle, especially since I only plan to run 31's, so it seems like it would be a good idea to upgrade to something stronger.

 

the ZJ tie rod would be perfect for you. its a good bit stronger and used a larger joint then the OEM. its not $$ like your under $100 new if you get it from napa with the joint and adjuster you need. cheaper if you get it used or junk yard find. I'm going to be putting on in mine soon but I'm also going to flip the drivers side with this kit http://www.goferitoffroad.com/products.htm

 

Yeah I bet I could pick up a ZJ tie rod cheap from the JY or from someone parting out a Grand. So most people have good luck running those off road?

 

i know of 3 right now that I wheel with and all are holding up to some abuse. and we dont run easy trails I'm on borrowed time with the stock one

 

I have ran a zj tierod on one of my xj's and it took all kinds of abuse

 

I recently picked up a zj tie rod (and draglink) at a junkyard for $10, and just for comparison its solid and 1" diameter- so not quite as beefy as the aftermarket stuff but considerably better than stock and for the price it's the only way to go. Even if your local JY is a little pricier than mine.

 

I just bought rustys upgraded setup. My entire steering system was in need of help. Between buying moog stuff and upgrading to ZJ stuff, buying the rustys was like $15 more expensive....

 

iron rock heavy duty tie rod. $67 its awesome

 

in my stupid town the moog pass side tie rod is 125$, pitman $49 + other tie rods for zj, or rustys upgrade 140$ = 299, got the whole setup from rustys for the $275, and a new stabilizer for 35.

 

What do you need to do if you decide to use the ZJ tie rod? do you buy zj tie rod ends, adjusting sleeves? can you use it with stock center link ?

 

ironman4x4fab .. 100$ with TRE's

 

That's the best way to go, financially. 10 bucks and you're rocking again.

This is what I have. It seemed that when I bent mine, or was just looking for one in the junkyards I never found any of them. Once I put that IronRock bar on, i've since run across like 4 Grand bars in the junkyard.

 

Are there any other steering upgrades from a ZJ I can use? Like the drag link? I figure I probably need to replace all the TRE's, my steering is really loose...

 

I think it's the same. The only thing different is that the Grand V8 lower tie rod is solid, not hollow.