Replacing the passenger side hub and bearings today I had a problem with the tie-rod end. It was harder gettin lose than the hub was. I beat it up pretty good, and although I can't see through all the grease yet it doesn't appear as though that knuckle is replaceable, so I assume it's time for a whole new bar. I just buggard up the threads on the bolt. Are there any aftermarket replacements for these or is this just something to pick up at the local parts store?

 

You can pick one up at just about any auto parts store for about $140 - 160 dollars.
Next time try using a pickle fork

There are a couple of aftermarket steering link setups out there that are made on a one off basis, you have to measure your truck up and send in the measurements, $500 later you have a bullet proof steering link system.
Cheaper to replace with lifetime factory parts and replace as needed

 

Thats what finally got it. Thats the hazards of working on these out in the country. Didn't have one at the barn, and my only transport was in peices. Finally had to call the kid and have him bring me one out. Hate makin him feel like a hero.

 

The easy way to get them off even if you have a pickle fork is grab a hammer in each hand and whack both outside sides of the joint at the same time. Wear safety glasses.

 

you can always clean it up with a thread file, next time do as bill said and leave the nut on loosely so you can't bung the threads too bad.

GREG

 

I had the nut on it but by the time I got done beatin on it the castle prtion was so bent up that it was stuck to the bolt. The bolt just turned with the nut and didn't have any way of holding the bolt tight

 

If the old one will go back together, you can lukes link the tierod ends, do a search on lukes link, or go to www.lukelink.com