Overview
The Rugged Ridge 18050.81 is a heavy-duty tie rod and drag link kit for the 1982 to 1986 Jeep CJ7 and the 1982 to 1985 Jeep Scrambler, for the front left side. It is a bolt-on steering upgrade that helps keep tie rods from bending when larger tires are run.
The steel tubing is 1.25 inch OD with a 1/4 inch wall, and the kit is complete. Its 7/8 inch heavy duty rod ends have tapered joints designed for stock knuckle applications, so the knuckles do not need changes.
Key features
- Bolt-on design, per the manufacturer
- 1.25 inch OD SAE steel tubing with 1/4 inch wall
- 7/8 inch heavy duty rod ends with tapered ends for stock knuckles
- Seamless drawn steel tubing, no welds, per the manufacturer
- Complete kit
Setting up a bolt-on steering kit
A bolt-on tie rod and drag link kit replaces the existing linkage with parts sized for the job, which is useful when the stock pieces have stretched or worn. Because the work touches the steering, it is worth laying out the old and new parts side by side before removing anything.
Bolt holes and clamp positions should line up without forcing. If a part needs to be pried into place, the geometry is off and the fasteners will be under stress. Tighten each connection to the specified values and recheck them after the first drives.
Steering wheel center should be checked after the kit is in, and the front wheels need an alignment to set toe. Wear on the tires after a few hundred miles is a useful indicator of whether the setup is correct.
Specifications
| Brand | Rugged Ridge |
|---|---|
| Part number | 18050.81 |
| UPC | 804314123772 |
| Tubing | 1.25 inch OD SAE steel |
| Wall thickness | 1/4 inch (.25 inch) |
| Rod ends | 7/8 inch heavy duty |
| Position | Front left |
| Kit type | Complete kit |
Vehicle fitment
It fits 1982 to 1986 Jeep CJ7 models (Base, Laredo, Limited and Renegade) and 1982 to 1985 Jeep Scrambler models (Base, Laredo, Renegade, SL and SR).
Years outside these ranges, and the 1972 to 1981 CJ models, are not on the list. The CJ5, CJ6 and 1976 to 1981 CJ7 are covered by the separate 18050.8 kit. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Plan for an alignment check after the tie rods are replaced. The kit is for the front left side only, so confirm which side your vehicle needs before fitting.
What’s included
The kit is complete. Check the package contents against your installation before starting.
