Left tie rod end snapped

[AEdelheit]

though from what I am reading it seems that for some reason the breakage is happening on low speed turns. Not sure if that is flat-out luck, or something to due with the flaw.

It only happens at low speeds because that is when there is the most stress on the joints. It is much easier to turn a rolling tire then a stopped one. Think of driving a vehicle with no P/S, its very easy to turn at speed when everthing is moving but when stopped its very difficult.

 

[seafish]

It only happens at low speeds because that is when there is the most stress on the joints. It is much easier to turn a rolling tire then a stopped one. Think of driving a vehicle with no P/S, its very easy to turn at speed when everthing is moving but when stopped its very difficult.

THANKS for the explanation... that makes sense !!

 

[Deslich]

Greetings TDR Members! New member here, first post. I am currently dealing with this issue (Chrysler Recall L16) as it pertains to 2003-2008 models with the 08. 5+ steering upgrade. Called Chrysler, they deny the recall applies in America; Canada only according to them. NHTSA disagrees with the info Chrysler gave me. The local dealer (in WV BTW, not Canada) has the recall service instructions and flatly denied my request to see them - confidential he said. Dealer did say there were no specific part numbers listed on the recall instructions. I did get access to the Chrysler dealer service instructions for Recall L16 (copyrighted so I can't post it). It identifies 2008-2011 models by VIN and 2003-2008 models by when they may have had steering linkage service performed. Curiously, the service dates identified in the recall as it applies to the 03-08 models ranges from mid 2002-early 2008. I may be missing something here, but simple math leads me to believe that the 08. 5+ tie rod that is being recalled for the 08-11 models was not available for installation (because it did not exist) between mid 2002-early 2008. So is there a problem that applies to both the y-type and t-type steering linkages? Based on the dealer service instructions, I suspect the problem is not the part but the installation procedure that was used. The left and right tie rod ball ends must be installed parallel to each other or the left stud may be weakened and fracture. If the tie rod ball ends are parallel, replacement is not required. I am working with the NHTSA investigator that has responsibility for the recall to get this clarified. There was an implication that there may be grounds to get the recall opened to more VINs based on findings and volume of complaints. If any are interested in pursuing this on their own, or adding their voice to the complaint data base, call NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 and reference NHTSA ID No. 11V350000. I will update as information becomes available.