Outer tie rod end (right / left hand) designed for 1972–1979 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. This precision-machined steering component secures the connection between the steering rack or center link and the steering knuckle, maintaining alignment and safe, responsive steering. Built from hardened steel with a corrosion-resistant finish and a serviceable ball stud, it restores steering geometry, reduces play, and improves vehicle handling. Ideal for restoration projects or routine suspension maintenance, it offers dependable durability and straightforward installation to get vintage vehicles back on the road with confidence.
Features:
- Fits 1972–1979 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models — outer tie rod end, right and left hand applications.
- Hardened steel construction for long-lasting strength and load resistance.
- Corrosion-resistant finish protects against rust and road exposure.
- Serviced ball stud and sealed boot reduce wear and keep contaminants out.
- Restores steering precision by eliminating play and maintaining alignment.
- Straightforward replacement for restoration and suspension maintenance.
Installation / Application:
- Difficulty: 2/5
- Estimated time: 30–90 minutes per side
Instructions:
- Park on a level surface, engage parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels.
- Loosen the front wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle with a jack, and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the front wheel.
- Locate the outer tie rod end connected to the steering knuckle and the inner tie rod/center link. Note orientation and count turns to the jam nut for approximate alignment reassembly.
- Loosen the jam nut on the inner tie rod so the outer tie rod can be unscrewed.
- Remove the cotter pin (if present) and loosen the castle nut or retaining nut on the tie rod end. Use a ball joint separator (pickle fork) or carefully strike the knuckle to free the tie rod stud from the steering knuckle.
- Unscrew the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod or center link. Preserve the number of turns or measure length to help maintain alignment.
- Compare the new tie rod end to the old part to confirm correct hand (right/left) and orientation. Apply anti-seize or thread locker as desired to the threads.
- Screw the new outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod to the previously recorded position (or match measured length). Tighten the jam nut against the new tie rod end to secure.
- Insert the tie rod stud into the steering knuckle, tighten the castle nut to the manufacturer’s torque specification, and secure with a new cotter pin if required.
- Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque lug nuts to specification.
- Check steering alignment. A professional wheel alignment is strongly recommended after replacing tie rod ends to ensure proper tire wear and handling.
About Redline Select
Redline Restomotive® has established itself as a premier brand in the world of classic car restoration, providing enthusiasts with high-quality parts that meet the exacting standards of original manufacturer specifications. Dedicated to the preservation of American automotive history, Redline Restomotive® combines advanced manufacturing techniques with an in-depth understanding of vintage vehicles. The result is a range of products that seamlessly blend into the design and function of classic cars, giving restorers and collectors the assurance that each part reflects the era’s style, quality, and performance.
Redline Select® is our premium line of steering and suspension products for all vehicle makes and models including both North American and Import vehicles. We have partnered with an ISO 9001/QS9000/TS16949 certified manufacturing facility with more than 40 years of experience in producing components that perform to the standards our customers expect. Our steering and suspension parts are backed by multiple quality control checks along the way—during production, prior to shipping from the factory, and at arrival. With our ISO 9001:2015 certification, we observe the world’s highest standards for quality management.
Vehicle Fitment:
The Vehicle Fitment Guide is to be used as a general reference. The data has been provided by our suppliers and manufacturers and may contain errors or incorrect data. Always refer to a professional to verify correct fitment for your vehicle.
| Make |
Model |
Years |
| Ford |
Country Sedan |
1972 - 1974 |
| Ford |
Country Squire |
1972 - 1974 |
| Ford |
Custom 500 |
1972 - 1977 |
| Ford |
Galaxie 500 |
1972 - 1974 |
| Ford |
LTD II |
1977 - 1979 |
| Ford |
LTD |
1972 - 1978 |
| Ford |
Ranch Wagon |
1973 - 1974 |
| Ford |
Ranchero |
1972 - 1979 |
| Ford |
Thunderbird |
1972 - 1979 |
| Ford |
Torino |
1972 - 1976 |
| Lincoln |
Continental |
1975 - 1979 |
| Lincoln |
Mark IV |
1972 - 1976 |
| Lincoln |
Mark V |
1977 - 1979 |
| Mercury |
Cougar |
1974 - 1979 |
| Mercury |
Marquis |
1972 - 1978 |
| Mercury |
Montego |
1972 - 1976 |
| Mercury |
Monterey |
1972 - 1974 |
