Tie Rod Clamps
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 43
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Tie Rod Clamps
I have a basic question about tie rod clamps. I am installing new tie rod ends and tubes but can't seem to get the clamps to fit. I can't get the clamp bolt though due to the tube being in the way.
The car is a 1971/350
The car is a 1971/350
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 113
From: Saginaw Michigan
In this paper I tried to explain the tie rod and adjuster tube positions and adjustments as called out in the AIM. It is a Microsoft Word .doc. The picture in this document may be a bit clearer than the one above.
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?p=1021
If your adjuster tube has a groove on the OD on one end, that is the end that is outboard. Tubes are oriented that way on both sides. If your tubes do not have a groove, then the left hand thread should be positioned outboard on both sides. There is a sketch that goes along with the scan from the AIM that shows the adjuster tubes with the grooves.
BTW, contrary to 7T1vette's posting, the AIM specifically says the following:
"If necessary rotate a clamp a maximum of 45 degrees either direction so that the slit in the adjuster tube is not in line with the slot in the clamp."
I am sorry that I can't comment on your problem of getting the clamp bolt through the clamp. I can only comment on the AIM direction that says not to have clamp slots and tube slots aligned.
Hope that the paper helps.
Jim
Last edited by Jim Shea; Feb 4, 2012 at 09:25 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,200
Likes: 3
From: Lehigh county Pennsylvania
You might consider doing away with those OEM adjusting sleeves and installing these solid tubes with jamb nuts. I have a like-new pair at half price, $25. PM me if interested.
