Tie Rod, Ball Joint, Pitman Arm

Diagnostic Tools and Service Equipment

Properly servicing steering and suspension components requires specialized tools beyond basic hand tools. Ball joint separators, often called pickle forks or forked separators, allow technicians to separate ball joint tapers from steering knuckles without damaging surrounding components. The tine opening on these separators typically varies to accommodate different joint sizes, so having multiple sizes on hand ensures you're prepared for various applications.

For removing inner tie rods, specialized removal tools feature low-profile designs that fit into tight spaces and can turn smooth inner tie rod ends as well as those with flats. These tools enable technicians to remove inner tie rods without first removing the outer tie rod, saving significant time during rack seal jobs and other repairs.

Ball joint service kits with C-frame presses and adapter sets are essential for shops working on press-fit ball joints, which are common on many domestic and import vehicles. These comprehensive kits generally include dozens of adapters designed for specific vehicle applications, along with application charts and installation diagrams that eliminate guesswork.

Alignment Considerations and Bumpsteer

Understanding the relationship between tie rod geometry and wheel alignment is crucial when replacing these components. Tie rod length directly affects steering geometry and toe changes during suspension travel. If tie rods are too short relative to the rack, the travel arc becomes too severe, resulting in quicker toe changes. Conversely, tie rods that are too long can result in more severe toe-in conditions.

Bumpsteer—unwanted changes in toe angles during suspension compression and rebound—can make vehicles feel darty and indecisive. This phenomenon is affected by tie rod length, steering arm movement, and the angle between the tie rod and lower control arm. When replacing tie rods or performing suspension work, proper installation and post-repair alignment checks help minimize bumpsteer effects and ensure safe, predictable handling.

Modern vehicles equipped with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) may require post-alignment recalibrations to ensure cameras and sensors function correctly. Always consult manufacturer specifications and service procedures when working on these vehicles.

Safety and Inspection Best Practices

Before performing any alignment work, always inspect component condition thoroughly. Check ball joints for excessive play or torn boots, examine tie rods for bends or damage, and verify that steering linkage shows no signs of wear. Bent outer tie rods are often visible during inspection, but bent control arms, struts, or other components may not be as obvious and can affect alignment accuracy if not addressed.

When separating ball joints and tie rod ends, use the appropriate tool for the application. While pickle fork-style separators are effective, they can damage protective boots if not used carefully. For applications where boot preservation is critical, consider using pullers or other non-destructive separation methods.

Tie Rods, Ball Joints, and Pitman Arms

You’ve turned your craft into a successful business where you can service your customers quickly and efficiently. However, this is not one of those jobs where you always know what’s going to happen each day. You’ll have your standard appointments where they come in for a scheduled oil change or an alignment check, but then you’ll also have drop-ins who try to describe a strange squeaking sound or a rattling inside the engine. Be prepared for literally anything that comes into your shop with our selections of tie rods, ball joints, and pitman arms. We have a great selection for a variety of makes and models!

Whether you are shopping to stock up some parts that have gone missing, we get it, these are small pieces, or you are stocking up for your grand opening, we have everything you could need in our selection of tie rods, ball joints, and pitman arms. Get your customers back on their way with one of our ball joint removing adapters or maybe you need a front end service kit, we have those too. It’s important to be able to work on a variety of vehicles that come in for servicing, which is why we have options for Honda, Acura, Chrysler, Taurus, Ford, and more. Your customers will drive a variety of different vehicles, and it’s important that you are able to take care of their issue whether they’re in a pickup truck or a sports car. Having a variety of ball joints, pitman arms, and tie rods on hand may seem excessive, however, it’s just necessary. In order to be the best mechanic that keeps your customers coming back, you need to be able to fix their vehicles, and in a timely manner, which means having the proper tools on hand.

If you have any questions about our selection, please reach out to one of our customer service representatives. We are pleased to provide you only the highest quality tools and equipment, as a leading provider of automotive equipment, big and small.

WARNING: These products can contains certain metals/chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov