Tie Rod Diameter
07-17-2012 | 08:52 AM
#17
Thread Starter
Seasoned Member
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 294
Likes: 0
From: Colorado Springs
Year: 1990
Model: Cherokee
"""""If DOM is too brittle why do so many companies offer steering upgrades with DOM tube?""""
(Refer to PT Barnum's famous quote.)
Yes, DOM is brittle. Try bending it in your tube bender, then look close at the bend - use a little acid to etch it - stress cracks all over!
Now try bending it back!
The steel is the same as ERW, just the DOM has been pulled through dies to make it rounder - rounder does not make it stronger in this kind of application. The pulling process work hardens the steel. Then when it flexes the hard steel cracks. ERW bends a few more times before developing those same cracks. Do a little research.
Just because some companies offer it - doesn't mean it's good. Case in point - Smitty Built makes lots of stuff - but look at all the complaints.
Some even make roll cages out of it!
There's even aluminum tie rods and drag links out there! They are strong and light, but they work harden real fast!
It may be OK for the street, but not really for serious off roading where it takes a beating.
Currie seems to make the strongest, but even then I've broken 2 of them. They are big solid forgings!
Schedule 40 - even 60 - WATER PIPE? You've got to be kidding!
(Refer to PT Barnum's famous quote.)
Yes, DOM is brittle. Try bending it in your tube bender, then look close at the bend - use a little acid to etch it - stress cracks all over!
Now try bending it back!
The steel is the same as ERW, just the DOM has been pulled through dies to make it rounder - rounder does not make it stronger in this kind of application. The pulling process work hardens the steel. Then when it flexes the hard steel cracks. ERW bends a few more times before developing those same cracks. Do a little research.
Just because some companies offer it - doesn't mean it's good. Case in point - Smitty Built makes lots of stuff - but look at all the complaints.
Some even make roll cages out of it!
There's even aluminum tie rods and drag links out there! They are strong and light, but they work harden real fast!
It may be OK for the street, but not really for serious off roading where it takes a beating.
Currie seems to make the strongest, but even then I've broken 2 of them. They are big solid forgings!
Schedule 40 - even 60 - WATER PIPE? You've got to be kidding!
so short version: DOM=strong er than HREW but no flexy. HREW=flexy not as strong. Molloy=Flexy and Strong and $$$.
As for PVC, I would use DWV as it has a cool green color. And if you dont know what DWV is them
07-17-2012 | 02:23 PM
#18
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 760
Likes: 6
From: Landers, CA
Year: Several
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Ha Ha - green is for gas - just stop eating at TACO BELL!
Chrome-moly is great - but the drawback there is welding the bungs on the ends - it's tricky! It really should be TIG welded.
I ran into a fellow at a coffee shop - he had a beautiful CJ on a trailer he just bought and was . Fantastic custom paint and lots of "goodies."
As we talked I leaned against the cage - it moved!
After we pulled off the padding we found the cage structure was made of PVC!
That was more dangerous than no cage at all - you'd be more careful if you knew you didn't have one.
Needless to say he went looking for the seller.
Be careful what you buy!
On the TJ board awhile ago there was a long thread showing unsafe things like wood and PVC tie rods, wood spring spacers, Z rods, etc.
Maybe someone has some of those pics left?
Good to laugh about, but some people --.
It's no fun to have your safety equipment kill you.
Chrome-moly is great - but the drawback there is welding the bungs on the ends - it's tricky! It really should be TIG welded.
I ran into a fellow at a coffee shop - he had a beautiful CJ on a trailer he just bought and was . Fantastic custom paint and lots of "goodies."
As we talked I leaned against the cage - it moved!
After we pulled off the padding we found the cage structure was made of PVC!
That was more dangerous than no cage at all - you'd be more careful if you knew you didn't have one.
Needless to say he went looking for the seller.
Be careful what you buy!
On the TJ board awhile ago there was a long thread showing unsafe things like wood and PVC tie rods, wood spring spacers, Z rods, etc.
Maybe someone has some of those pics left?
Good to laugh about, but some people --.
It's no fun to have your safety equipment kill you.
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