sigmark 3 #1 Posted August 9, 2016 My C160 has been running beautifully for over a year now after the install of a new carb {thanks to some help here}. However today, while in reverse trying to unclog WAY TOO much dried grass that had got under the front end, I loss steering on the left side. Attached is a scan from manual highlighting the piece, best image I can find at the moment. Is this the Tie Rod? (highlighted in yellow) It doesnt seem broke, but figured it is worn a bit over the years and got pushed off at the ball joint. Does this 'pop' back on? Hammer, replace? ideas and thoughts. Thanks. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Shynon 7,435 #2 Posted August 9, 2016 Tie rod ball end is worn out, probably need a new one, go to the vendors section. wheelhorseman1000 makes replacements. 7 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
N3PUY 1,031 #3 Posted August 9, 2016 Take off the complete tierod .... insert the ball back into the hole .... hold the rod with the OK end on the floor .... now hammer the loose end with a hammer ... this will egg-shape the hole and retain the ball. You're good for another few years! Hammer it until the ball is snug. 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jeff R. 35 #4 Posted August 9, 2016 Another option is to put it back together and take some mechanics wire and lace it around the tie rod and the steering ball a few times. This fix will also last you several years. Ask me how I know this. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ed Kennell 35,764 #5 Posted August 9, 2016 I clamp mine in a vice. Then use a center punch to peen the socket tight around the ball. 4 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
elliot ness 1,916 #6 Posted August 10, 2016 4 hours ago, N3PUY said: Take off the complete tierod .... insert the ball back into the hole .... hold the rod with the OK end on the floor .... now hammer the loose end with a hammer ... this will egg-shape the hole and retain the ball. You're good for another few years! Hammer it until the ball is snug. Been there and done that same hammer trick and it is still together a year later 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Don1977 604 #7 Posted August 10, 2016 Hammering them back is just a temporary fix. I got tired of them coming apart and fix mine. That as 27 years ago haven't had any come apart. 5 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wheel-N-It 2,967 #8 Posted August 10, 2016 I like how you think Don ! 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sigmark 3 #9 Posted August 10, 2016 I will try to pop back on and see how its goes from there. Its the first time coming off and there was quite a load pushing on it ( ) . Would there be more of a load on while in reverse too, correct? So, go forward . How much for the part? Thanks all. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
UncleBubs73 3 #10 Posted August 16, 2016 Mine came apart and took one off a parts tractor. 10 years newer and it popped out too after a short time. I put the ball back in the socket and used a wire feed welder to "run a bead" around the socket. Have to hold the heat away from the ball so it doesn't stick it. Go slow! The bead is more like long zaps and then wiggle the ball. File it off and looks good. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
doc724 924 #11 Posted August 16, 2016 Stens has them for $28. The quick fix ideas may work in a pinch, but I don't agree with them. I agree with Don 1977 and Wheel-N-it, an injury or accident is not worth the $28 you saved. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Buckshot1 8 #12 Posted August 16, 2016 (edited) Go to Mcmaster-Carr. All different, shapes, sizes, of ball joints. An a he77 of a lot cheaper than 28$. Edited August 16, 2016 by Buckshot1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
