I bent a tie rod on my Z400 about 4 months ago. I bought a new one, installed it, and I haven't been able to get the front wheel alignment right since. I've referenced the owners manual but my steering is still off. Can anyone help me?

Thanks,
Z400Tom

 

Were there any other parts damaged?

 

Nope, the only part damaged was the tie rod. I checked all the other componenets (tie rod ends, steering shaft, spindles) and they all appear to be fine. I've been told by others that Suzuki purposely designed the tie rods to be a wink link in the steering system, so if you have contact with an immovable object (in my case a tree) the tie rods will bend to protect other, more expensive parts. My main problem is how to measure the toe-in on the front wheels. I can't seem to find a place on the chassis or tires that I can duplicate side to side. Even when the tires and handlebar appear to be in line with one another when I measure the distances are always different. Is there a gauge or soemthing I can buy or make to make this easier?