Inner tie rod end for 1978–1981 Ford and Mercury vehicles (right or left hand) with a 281 mm overall length. This precision-forged steering component connects the steering rack to the outer tie rod, maintaining proper alignment and steering geometry. Built for durability and reliable performance, it resists wear and play to restore steering feel and safety on classic cars. Simple design and standard threads make it a direct replacement for worn or damaged inner tie rods during maintenance or restoration projects.
Features:
- Fitment: 1978–1981 Ford and Mercury models — inner tie rod end, right or left hand, 281 mm overall length.
- Precision-forged construction for consistent strength and long service life.
- Restores steering alignment and reduces play for improved handling and safety.
- Sealed ball joint design helps prevent contamination and extend component life.
- Direct replacement part — no major modifications required for installation.
- Ideal for restoration, maintenance, or upgrading worn steering linkage components.
Installation / Application:
- Difficulty: 2/5
- Estimated time: 30-90 minutes per side
Instructions:
- Park on level ground, engage parking brake and chock rear wheels.
- Loosen the front wheel lug nuts, lift the vehicle with a jack, and support on jack stands. Remove the front wheel.
- Locate the inner tie rod at the steering rack and apply penetrating oil to the threads and jam nut/lock collar.
- Mark the position of the outer tie rod on the threaded section or measure the distance from a fixed point to preserve alignment.
- Remove the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle using a tie rod puller or pickle fork; do not damage the boot.
- Loosen and remove the lock nut or collar securing the inner tie rod to the rack, then unthread the inner tie rod from the rack.
- Thread the new inner tie rod onto the steering rack to the original marked position or measured length.
- Tighten the lock nut or install any supplied retaining hardware to the torque specification for your vehicle.
- Reinstall the outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle and torque the castle nut or nut to spec. Reattach cotter pin if equipped.
- Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, torque the wheel lug nuts, and perform a preliminary alignment check. Have a professional wheel alignment performed after installation to ensure proper toe settings.
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 |
Fairmont |
1978 - 1981 |
| Ford |
Granada |
1981 |
| Ford |
Mustang |
1979 - 1981 |
| Mercury |
Capri |
1979 - 1981 |
| Mercury |
Zephyr |
1978 - 1981 |
