ADVICE PLEASE!

[drmiles]

Phil is dead on. Weak link to break equals ride home on the wrecker. Pitman, Idler arm and center links are not significantly more to replace than the tie rod. Power steering pumps might be a different question. My vote is to upgrade and replace worn and weak components with stronger ones, AVOID THE WRECKER RIDE HOME AT ALL COST..

Originally Posted by PhilD

I'll throw my 2c in on this.

There have been several people claim that the weak stock rods are some sort of "pressure valve:, and designed to break, so as to prevent any more costly damage. I simply do not believe this to be the case. First, the tie rods came out the GM parts bin and are what they had available. Second, why would anyone design something that can be broken so easily into the steering system of a vehicle. Finally, the stock tie rods are substantially weaker than the rest of the steering system.

You are simply reducing the risk of breaking a tie rod by using a stronger component. All other things remaining equal, you are not any more likely to break something else, just because of the HD tie rods.

Lifted H2's can bend the center link as the tie rod angles change, when the center link rotates, the angles become very odd and it is very easy to push the center link up, causing it to bend. This seems more common on the passenger side. This can be resolved witha solid center link with no curved section at the ends.

Any tire/alignment store can fit HD tie rods and I know many Hummer dealers have done it also. It is not a difficult job, but you will need an alignment afterwards.

If you don't want to risk the warranty issues with your dealer, and they have to prove the tie rods caused the damage, then send the TR's back for a full refund.