Firstly, I've searched and read, and the only mention I've seen like this is one by Iggy from a few years ago..

The specifics:
I have an 85 s12 I'm installing an s14 front suspension in. I've installed s14 LCA's, uprights, 5-lug spindles, inner and outer tie rod ends and tension rod brackets. S13 tension rods and z32 calipers and rotors w/spl conversion lines.

The problem:
With everything installed, wheels on and on the ground, the caster is way positive, meaning the front of the tires contact the fenders and the toed in probably 10deg or so. The tie rod ends are completely threaded onto the inners leaving no further adjustability.

My thoughts:
At this point, I'm thinking about trying z32 inner tie rods with the s14 outers, as I know they're shorter, and iirc, the same thread pitch and thickness. I mentioned previously Iggy mentioned 'cutting down' the s14 inner and outer tie rod ends in an old thread, but I couldn't find any further specifics on this.

As far as the caster issue, should I be trying s14 tension rods, or just pick up some adjustables?

Any help would be appreciated. I'm scrambling to get the car prepped, rolling, set up and flogged to drive to Carlisle....next weekend

real recent info on this in my garage thread

ya you need adjustable S13 tension rods. I havent measured but I think the S12 rack is wider than the S13/S14 rack. Thats why ur so toed in even with the tie rods bottomed out. That and thr S14 crossmember is wider. Cut a half inch or so off the inner tie rod and test fit. When I had S13 inner/outer tie rods with the S12 LCA I had to cut the inner AND outer tie rod down about as far as u can safelyish do. GL

yeah i had to do this as well.

i cut approximelty one inch off the inner rods , and aligned into spec.

just a suggestion, what i did was threaded on a thread chaser( or die) onto the inner , then cut it, and pulled then threaded the chaser off to clean up the threads where yout cut.

question.

i have no frame damage from my accident on the wall, from what i can see. my control arm looks fine?


but i have slight more positive camber. could it be i have a bent control arm and just cant tell?

possibly...
I hit a pothole and bent mine negative

check everything david

I agree with installing a die first, then cutting. I also would taper a few of the threads (like, 2) to ensure proper engagement when installing.

Has anybody tried the z32 inners? They may just go right on. I'll see if I can pick up a set and measure them.

David--you probably did bend something. Likely the lower control arm, usually at the flatter section just inside the ball joint. Less commonly, but possible is a bent strut or spindle in that order.

Thanks, Iggy! BTW--Pm inop!