Tie-rod ends... types

[Boink]

So, can I assume that if I don't have a grease nipple on the underside of each tie-rod ball-joint, that I have a "newer" tie-rod end? The one on the left is older (from another car) and the one on the right is mine (which had updates done by the prior owner). Both are Bugeyes. I also presume that there are just 3 zerk fittings to hit on each front suspension side: 1) on the lower A-frame end, 2) the lower-middle of the king-pins, and 3) the top of the king-pin area. Is that correct? And what about any grease fitting I find on the steering rack?
Thanks.
- Mark

 

[PeterC]

The tie rod ends made for the past few decades have been without grease zerks. "lubricated for life". (good until they aren't)

You are correct about the 3 fittings

The one on the steering rack is NOT for grease.... but oil.


Peter C

 

[jlaird]

Don't forget the universal joints, the one on the rear emer. brake line, and the hand brake compensator lever.

Just checked there is a lub diagram in the back of the shop manual.

 

[nomad]

Don't forget the back of the generator if you have an original.

Kurt.

 

[jlaird]

No zerk there though.

 

[aeronca65t]

Newer tie rods ends (on later 1275 cars and all 1500 Midgets) are a different size and thread due to the new-style steering rack.
They will not interchange with earlier tie rods ends.

 

[nomad]

Right Jack, I was thinking lubrication, not just grease.

Kurt.

 

[Boink]

Thank you all.
Yes, I'd just figured out the steering rack (as different), and I think there are 2 lube points in the rear (associated with the hand-brake?). I got the grease in all the front points just fine... flowing out nicely. I'll be sure to hit the generator oil point.

When I got the car (freshly rebuilt) the owner had failed/forgotten to put the zerk and cap on the passenger side fulcrum pin point (which faces backward on that side)... so I had to get that installed.

I've always felt that lubing is easy and should be done more than it usually is (since harmless).