To make a long story short, I had to remove my outer tie rod because my CV boot split open (so I could remove the axle). I stripped the nut to where it connects to the steering knuckle, so i had to order a new outer tie rod. The new one seems to be flared at the end it threads into the inner tie rod. I think the one I broke was an after market part (probably installed by someone else) The other side of the car seems to have an OEM tie rod and a sleeve over that flared portion (if that makes any sense). Since I can tighten that 24 mm nut okay, is that sleeve thing necessary? Is it some generic piece i can get anywhere, or do i nave to get it from Mini?

 

The tie rod on the bottom is missing the clamp ring that goes on the end. I have an 06 and it has the rings. I believe the original design (02-04) was like the one on the top.

 

You'll notice the flared end of the tie rod has a split in it. The sleeve clamps down around it so the threads are essentially clamped onto the inner tire rod. Without that sleeve I would worry that the split section could flare out and the inner and outer rods could separate.

 

Thanks for your responses. I get this feeling at some point in time the tie rod was replaced with a pre 2004 version which didn't seem to have a sleeve. i tried a few parts stores and no one seems to sell just the sleeve. I'll check with the dealership on Monday or maybe just order a pre 2004 tie rod end which matches my style. They appear to be the same size if I'm not mistaken.

 

Yep, you can see the sleeve and i dont see a part for that.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ll-joints.html





When i did mine i did the whole arm as its easier and you dont have to separate as they like to stick. You got yours apart and that half the battle. But some ant seize on it as it makes it easy to get apart in the future and to align.

 

Here you go.