Overview
The Rugged Ridge 18043.27 is a spare heavy duty tie rod end with a drag link connection for Rugged Ridge heavy duty tie rods and drag links. It has a 7/8 inch shaft and a left hand thread, and it is made for the front right position on the Jeep vehicles covered below.
A tie rod end is the joint at the end of a tie rod, so a replacement end is used when only the joint needs replacing rather than the whole assembly. It fits Cherokee (XJ), Grand Cherokee (ZJ), Wrangler Unlimited (LJ) and Wrangler (TJ) models.
Key features
- Spare tie rod end for Rugged Ridge heavy duty tie rods and drag links
- 7/8 inch shaft
- Left hand thread
- Listed position: front right
- Drag link connection
Replacing a single joint
A tie rod end carries the steering load at the wheel, and when it begins to wear the first signs are play at the joint, a torn boot, or loss of grease. Clunking over bumps and uneven front tire wear can also point to a worn end. Lift the wheel and check for movement at the joint, since play that is hard to feel by hand can still affect steering control.
When replacing one end, match the thread direction and check the threads on the rod before fitting the new end. Tighten the jam nut and the castle nut to the vehicle’s service specifications, and fit a new cotter pin. Keep the boot and grease fitting in good condition on the new end. Once fitted, align the front end, since the length of the tie rod sets toe and affects tire wear.
Specifications
| Brand | Rugged Ridge |
|---|---|
| Part number | 18043.27 |
| UPC | 804314123673 |
| Component | Spare tie rod end |
| Shaft | 7/8 inch |
| Thread | Left hand |
| Position | Front right |
| Connection | Drag link |
Vehicle fitment
The manufacturer fitment list names 1984 to 2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ) models, 1993 to 1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) models, 2004 to 2006 Wrangler Unlimited (LJ) models, and 1997 to 2006 Wrangler (TJ) models. Trims on the list run from Base and Laredo to Rubicon, Sahara, Unlimited Rubicon and 65th Anniversary Edition.
Wrangler JK and JL models, and Wrangler LJ models other than the Unlimited, are not on the list. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Check the thread direction before fitting, since this end is listed with a left hand thread. Tie rod ends are typically adjusted to set toe, so a wheel alignment is normally needed after a replacement.
What’s included
One spare tie rod end. Not included: the Rugged Ridge tie rod or drag link that this end is designed to connect to.
