A tie rod is a critical component in the steering system of an automobile. It resembles an L-shaped faucet that helps connect the wheel to the steering rack of the steering system. The leg of the L-shaped tie rod end is made to connect to the steering arm of the wheel, while the main body is connected to the tie rod. A bulky joint then connects the leg and the main body. This joint serves as the pivot for the steering arm, allowing it to rotate as the tie rod pulls the steering arm of the wheel. 

When the steering wheel is turn, the rotational motion of the steering wheel is transmitted to the steering rack by the pinion of the steering shaft and this result in inter-locking of the teeth of the pinion with the teeth of the steering rack. The rotational movement gets converted in to the linear movement and the steering rack starts sliding from left to right and vice versa.

This action causes the tie rod to be pulled and since the tie rod is connected to the steering arm of the wheel, the wheel also moves subsequently in the direction of the steering wheel. The tie rod end serves as the pivot and allows the tie rod end and the steering arm to move more smoothly. The turning of the steering wheel becomes really easy because of the force multiplication and the gear reduction achieved by the pinion and the rack mechanism.

Tie rods play another important role in a steering system. They help achieve stability of steering and prevent any mishap from taking place due to steering looseness. Tie rod ends help in keeping the tensile force equal for both the inner and the outer wheel during steering and prevents the wheels from getting loose. By virtue of doing so, the tie rod ends ensure that the traction and torque are maintained at the optimal level and the steering moves in a smooth and stable manner. 

Now when you have understood the role and importance of the tie rod in a steering suspension system, you must be very careful in buying the same for your vehicle. When shopping for the end tie rod or front tie rod, make sure that the tie rod is made keeping in mind the highest quality standards. Mirror finished ball stud allow smooth operation and longer wear. CR boots and internal top ring at tie rod provides better fit and contaminate exclusion. Also, such tie rods result in low fiction and promise high performance. Lastly, go for encapsulated tie rod ends as they do not require servicing and greasing for lifetime.

Do check your tie rod ends from time to time to ensure that any loosening or wearing out of the tie rods does not risk your vehicle and your life.

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