One of the most exciting automobiles for many collectors and enthusiasts is the Golf MK1. It has a dedicated section named tie rod ends, which is critically important to enable the car to steer effectively. The tie rod ends connect the two parts of the steering system — the steering rack and the steering knuckles. So this connection is what makes the car able to smoothly turn left or right. If there are no good tie rod ends, you would struggle to drive the car.
Tie rod ends don’t last forever, and over time will wear out and loosen. When this occurs, it can also cause steering of the vehicle to feel insecure and unsafe. Here are few of the common signs that your Golf MK1 tie rod ends are getting old and need replacing:
Steering Wheel is Loose: If you notice that the steering feels quite loose or either when you turn the steering wheel the steering feels wobbled, that can be the symptoms of tie rod ends getting worn out. The steering wheel should be firm and responsive, not shaky.
Car wandering: When your car is wandering to one side of the road even though you are driving in a straight line, it may be due to worn tie rod ends To remain safe on the road, it’s essential that you can drive your vehicle in a straight line.
Sounds When Making Turns: If you hear clunking or knocking sounds when you turn the steering wheel, this can mean that the tie rod ends are malfunctioning. Such sounds can be the provide rage and should not be ignored.
Step 1: Remove the Wheel and Tire — First, you will need to remove the wheel and tire on the side of the car you are changing the tie rod end on. This will make it easy to get to the parts that you will need to work with.
Or maybe driving fast is your thing, or just want some better handling whilst cruising along in your Golf MK1, then you should think about purchasing some upgraded tie rod ends. Made of stiffer materials, your new, upgraded tie rod ends can handle more stress than what the original tie rod ends provided, keeping your ride straighter while cornering and providing better feedback when pushing your vehicle to its limits. It can assist your auto in steering much more exactly and feeling more steady on the street.