TRE (tie rod ends) and Heim Joints, can they be interchanged?

Why a Heim Joint with a 7/8"-14 TPI Thread Cannot Replace a Tie Rod End with a 7/8"-18 TPI Thread

When working on vehicle steering or suspension systems, it’s important to use the correct components to ensure both performance and safety. One common issue mechanics or DIY enthusiasts encounter is determining whether certain components are interchangeable. A frequent question arises regarding the possibility of replacing a tie rod end (TRE) that has a 7/8"-18 TPI thread with a heim joint that has a 7/8"-14 TPI thread. At first glance, both components may seem similar, but there are important differences that make this substitution impossible without modifications.

Thread Pitch Difference

The most critical factor that prevents a heim joint with a 7/8"-14 TPI (threads per inch) thread from being a direct replacement for a tie rod end with a 7/8"-18 TPI thread is the thread pitch.

• 7/8"-18 TPI means there are 18 threads per inch on the shank of the tie rod end.
• 7/8"-14 TPI means there are 14 threads per inch on the shank of the heim joint.

These are two completely different thread pitches. The finer threads of the tie rod end (18 TPI) are more closely spaced, while the heim joint’s 14 TPI threads are coarser and more widely spaced.

• Incompatibility: A 7/8"-14 TPI heim joint cannot thread into a 7/8"-18 TPI housing or any threaded component that accepts 18 TPI because the two thread patterns do not align. Attempting to force one into the other would damage the threads on both the joint and the housing, rendering both unusable.

A heim joint with a 7/8"-14 TPI thread cannot replace a tie rod end with a 7/8"-18 TPI thread due to differences in thread pitch. While both components might appear similar in size, they are built for different purposes and require different thread engagement. Attempting to swap them without proper modifications can result in thread damage, steering failure, or even a dangerous driving situation. For vehicle steering systems, it’s always best to use the correct components designed for the specific application.