[SaintG1983]

Hi All!  New to the forum and was hoping some one might be able to help me out.  New machine 3rd ride... Well was on the trail last night and noticed my steering wheel was off a little and felt a little funny.  Looked everything over and all seemed fine.  Long and behold a little later my tie rod end snapped.  What a nightmare getting out of the trails.  Ended up using the winch wrapped on the caliper to keep the wheel straight with a lot of in and out action to make the turns.  I made it out after limping along.  Now, looking for some upgraded parts to replace out all the factory parts and I am having trouble finding any upgraded tie rod ends and tie rods for this machine? Any one have some suggestions?  Alpha Sports is great and has all the parts but I want to beef this up with some heavy duty ones?  Any help would be appreciatied! Oh I also bent the steering knuckle???  I didn't hit anything so I am taken back how this could have happened?  I mean, I drove over some big rocks with a little bouncing action but nothing that should have bent that and snap the tie rod end??  Anyone ever have luck with warranty claims??  Sorry for all the detail and several questions loaded in here.

[NMKawierider]

To my knowledge there are no aftermarket parts like that out there. Have to go with OEM.

[SaintG1983]

Thanks MNK, I am seeing that... I’ve emailed a few manufacturers to see if they have anything they can offer or make for these machines...  btw, what storage box did you go with on your rig?

[NMKawierider]

Thanks MNK, I am seeing that... I’ve emailed a few manufacturers to see if they have anything they can offer or make for these machines...  btw, what storage box did you go with on your rig?

I just went with this aluminum box back in 2015. It was much cheaper back then. I think I paid like $157 then.

https://www.amazon.com/UWS-ATV-Tool-Box/dp/B000MK5LVG/ref=pd_sbs_auto_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=03AXR8XEXV0T25XJD2QM

[SaintG1983]

Thanks!  I was looking at that exact one.

 Update on the tie rod end.  Ended up replacing with a stock one and purchased a spare.  My knuckle is still bent up a good inch. Waiting on the new knuckle.  Think it’ll be ok to ride as is? 

[NMKawierider]

Thanks!  I was looking at that exact one.

 Update on the tie rod end.  Ended up replacing with a stock one and purchased a spare.  My knuckle is still bent up a good inch. Waiting on the new knuckle.  Think it’ll be ok to ride as is? 

I wouldn't...I'm wondering why it hasn't broken clean off...and it might if any more stress is put on it...and if it does..the following wreck might take you or your frame out. I'd just wait..make it right first. Steering is..pretty important...lol

[SaintG1983]

Yea good call.  Being a cast part and all it is weird it bent and did't snap.  Have you or anyone else you know changed out the steering knuckle before?  Seems straight forward but I am not sure if the ball joints will come out easy?  I think they have a snap ring but not sure if they are also pressed in?  Thanks for all you knowledge!

[NMKawierider]

Yea good call.  Being a cast part and all it is weird it bent and did't snap.  Have you or anyone else you know changed out the steering knuckle before?  Seems straight forward but I am not sure if the ball joints will come out easy?  I think they have a snap ring but not sure if they are also pressed in?  Thanks for all you knowledge!

I have on other makes. They are not pressed in..just a little interference-fit with snap rings. Not tough to do except the axle nut might be a toughie with it's torque. Leave the wheel and tire on and on the ground when breaking that loose.

While off inspect the a-arms close. Any impact that would damage that knuckle I would think may effect the a-arms...or mounts.