I am in the process of rebuilding the front end on my 1998 Ranger with a 3.0 engine.

When I installed new tie rod ends and put them into the spindle the one on the passenger side went right in and tightened down properly.

When I put the tie rod end into the spindle on the drivers side it went so deep that when I tightened the tie rod end nut, the nut went way past the point where the cotter key is inserted to make it stay in place.

Unfortunately I have thrown away all of the parts that I removed from the front end to replace. I am trying to figure out if I have an incorrect part or a bad spindle?

I have moved the vehicle to my drive and due to health problems and family obligations will wait till cooler and dryer weather to continue the repairs to this vehicle.

Any information or suggestions will be helpful.

Thank You

How bad was the old tie rod? If you let it get real bad it could have wallered it out maybe

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I will check everything very carefully when I start work again.