Learning About Buying The Right Auto Parts

How to Tell When Your ATV's Tie Rods Are on Their Last Legs

10 October 2016

Reginald Richardson

Playing hard is what your ATV is designed to do. But those hard days spent on the trails can do a number on your ATV's suspension. Tie-rod end failure is a common problem among ATV owners, and it's a problem that can affect your ride's drivability, performance, and safety.

It can be a bit difficult for the average ATV novice to figure out when their ATV's tie rod ends are not long for this world. Fortunately, the following provides a comprehensive guide on identifying signs of impending tie-rod end failure, as well as what to do if you see said signs.

A Wobbly Situation

Worn-out tie-rod ends can have a drastic effect on your ATV's handling and overall stability. For instance, a worn-out tie rod can induce a wobbling effect in the suspension's geometry, and that could make the steering seem loose and shaky at times. If you're having trouble maintaining a straight line on solid terrain, or if the steering seems loose at high speeds, then that could be an indicator of failing tie-rod ends.

In addition to wobbling and harsh vibration while riding, you might also notice a popping sound as you perform hard turns. You may even feel some play in the handlebars, especially when you're moving them while you're at a standstill.

Play When at Rest

Another way to tell whether the tie rods have gone bad involves checking for any play in the steering. The best way to do this is with your ATV's front wheels off the ground, but only enough so they'll spin without any resistance. To check the steering for signs of play, pick a front wheel and place your hands on the wheel, making sure your hands are positioned at 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock.

Next, move the wheel back and forth as if you're turning the handlebars. As you turn one wheel, the other should turn simultaneously. If the other wheel doesn't move in sync, then you could be dealing with worn tie-rod ends.

Visual Clues

There are also a few visual cues to note when it comes to finding signs of tie-rod end wear. The first sign usually involves the rubber dust boot that covers the tie-rod end. The rubber boot not only prevents dust and grime from getting into the ball joint but also helps hold the grease that's needed to lubricate the joint.

A torn or missing boot is usually a sign of wear and tear that requires attention. Copious amounts of rust and corrosion on the tie-rod end can also signal the need for an immediate replacement, especially if you live in an area that regularly sees snow and salt. Last but not least, physical damage to the tie-rod end or the tie rod itself can spell the end for that component.

Tire wear is another indicator of tie-rod end wear. If the tire tread wears in a feathered fashion, or if you see significant amounts of wear on the inner shoulder of the tire, the underlying cause could be a worn tie-rod end or even a bent tie rod.

ATV Tie-Rod Replacement

When faced with bad tie rods, there's not much that can be done other than replace them using high-quality parts. Although used parts can be sourced from parted-out ATVs, you'll get the peace of mind and quality assurance that a brand-new set of tie-rod ends offer. The actual parts are relatively inexpensive, and you'll be able to save even more money by installing them yourself.

After your new tie-rod ends are installed, there's a good chance that your ATV's alignment will be off by a significant degree. If your ATV pulls to one side or exhibits accelerated tire wear, you should have a seasoned ATV mechanic perform an alignment on your ATV.

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