best way to reconnect tie rod ball joint?

[nick731]

hey guys, what is the best way to reconnect this?

[essness]

I would say, replace it. It will come off again.

[nick731]

not what i wanted to hear. is it just the rubber boot that holds this thing on?
i pickle fork got me to this point. i was hoping that i could 'pop' the ball back into socket...

[essness]

You probly could get it back in but it's not a normal condition. If you were to get it back in, it has been comprimised and most likely will seperate again, the question is when?

[scottyb]

Ess is right!
The pickle fork separated the ball & socket. It was not what was supposed to happen but it did.
If you force it back on it will tend to come off easier next time, at the worst time! ... like on a downhill trail.
Think Safety first and replace it
Get both parts off and bring them to your local parts house for a match.

[nick731]

ok thanks guys for the input. i may just order a new tie rod unit and switch em out. but in the mean time (this cart rides a short distance on pavement so no roughness) i want to try and get it back on. how do you guys suggest i do that? hammer?

[essness]

I've always replaced them, I have no suggestions.

[kab69440]

You can tap it back together with a hammer, but it will not hold. Once the socket is damaged, it will not heal up. Replacement now or in the not-too-distant future is the only option you have.

[simple man]

If you are trying to get your cart home squeeze the joint back together with a big pair of " channel locks " and then wrap some mechanics wire around the joint and the knuckle. Drive slowly home! Then, like was said, replace that joint before you drive the cart again!

[nick731]

ok so it sounds like replacement is the consensus. my question now is how? can i just beat the old one out since its obviously bad? i had the HARDEST time trying to get it free which is actually a reason that led to this damage. will it be just as hard to get a new one in ?