i replaced the outer tie rod end. i put it on but i didn't have enough thread to put the cotter pin in. does the cotter pin have to be in? i torqued it to specs but still no luck

 

Ever seen what happens when a tie rod becomes disconnected form teh rest of the car when you're driving down the freeway at 65 mph?

Do you really need that cotter pin?

If you drive anywhere near me, you damn sure do. I like being alive.

 

No offence but with a question like this, I personally would recommend you take your car to a professional to work on for your own safety. Can't imagine why you can not get the cotter pin in unless you have something fouled up.

 

you sure you don't have it in upside down?? You didn't try to use a washer, did you? It could also be the wrong one, maybe its an inner one.

 

To sum it up, YES!!! You won't be able to steer and the two front wheels will go where ever they want.

 

Have you tried pushing it down into the spindle?? sometimes they need a little nudge. And yes of course you need the cotter pin in. PLEASE don't drive that car until its in!