Replacing Drag Link and Tie Rod End

[4WheelinMama]

I recently got my TJ diagnosed after experiencing the inevitable death wobble. It felt like my jeep was shaking apart when going over 25. I was told it was the left side that was loose. They said I needed to replace the Center Link, Drag Link, Outer Tie Rod and Upper and Lower Ball Joints. I am going to do the work myself but I'm not sure what parts to get. Would it be best to get the drag link/tie rod system together or replace the specific parts? I would like to upgrade them to stronger parts.

 

[CodaMan]

I would do the ZJ steering upgrade. It's beefier and the parts coast the same as the stock components.

 

[CodaMan]

https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/zj-tie-rod-conversion.2373/

 

[fizzlebottom]

+1 for Moog ZJ stuff. Price is right.

If you're doing your ball joints, it'll be a good time to evaluate your axle ujoints and unit bearings. Make sure you have the correct ball joint adapters for the Dana 30/Dana 44 or you'll have a bad time.

After replacing your steering bits you'll need to do an alignment or get it close enough so you can drive to a shop that can do it for you.

 

[EzPeezy]

+1 for Moog ZJ stuff. Price is right.

If you're doing your ball joints, it'll be a good time to evaluate your axle ujoints and unit bearings. Make sure you have the correct ball joint adapters for the Dana 30/Dana 44 or you'll have a bad time.

After replacing your steering bits you'll need to do an alignment or get it close enough so you can drive to a shop that can do it for you.

And if you want to upgrade a little further by adding inner-c gussets the time to do it is when the ball joints are out

 

[DEValken]

I just did the Moog ZJ upgrade last week, pretty straight forward task. I got everything from Amazon, I want to say it was right at $200.

As stated above, you will need to align your toe after the change. There is a great thread on here on doing this yourself. Super easy, and no different than what a $70 alignment will get you.

 

[DEValken]

Here is the alignment thread...

https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/how-to-align-your-jeep-wrangler-tj.85/

 

[fizzlebottom]

And if you want to upgrade a little further by adding inner-c gussets the time to do it is when the ball joints are out

I'd put it on my list if I knew anything about welding

 

[Goatman]

Also in favor of the ZJ upgrade using Moog ends. Also, if 1 side needs ball joints the other is likely needing them soon. Doing all 4 at once is easier (to me) than having to tear into the other side a month later.