Today my son was on our 98 Warrior and he broke the left tie-rod. We purchased this used last week and we have had some problems. The atv seems in good condition, but last week we had a problem due to the parking break that believe it or not causes the engine to run rough. We actually can fix this with help from our mechanic friend. Today something else happened--all within one week. I still feel the 98 Warrior is a fine machine but it is in our garage more than we like. My son is getting a little discouraged, he contributed $1,000 and will be working for the balance, but I told him we will iron out the bugs. Besides, the tie-rod I think was his fault. I am newbie, but we have to replace this tie-rod--is this considered "relatively" easy. The part next to the wheel has a bolt with a nut. We took off the nut, but how does the small threaded bolt come off? Does this just bang out with a hammer or is there something else. What is the approximate price for the tie-rod and should I buy two? Is this considered normal when riding in rocky areas that it would brake? Should I buy it from a catologue or dealer and what brand do you recommend? We do have skid plates but they don't protect the tie-rod area. Any info would be appreciated and have a happy Thanksgiving from Rhode Island!

 

mtbdad,
Well, for starters, there is nothing wrong with the engine when it doesn't rev with the parking brake on. The rev limiter restricts the rpms to about 2200 when the brake is set so you can't ride with the brake on. I removed the latch on mine anyway as it is a dangerous knife-like obstacle & I have the scar on my arm to remind me.
Before replacing the tie rods, I'd strongly recommend you get a shop manual- either the official Yamaha one or a Clymer one. You'll need the specs on measurements and wheel alignments to do it.
As to whether it is normal for tie rods to break, I guess if one bangs a rock hard enough any part will break. DG makes a-arm bash plates at $75 each side. I think that being mor selective in picking a line thru rocks would be the wiser (& cheaper) alternative. Here in Az we have either rocks or hard pack or both. I ride over rocks every week-end & don't recall ever hitting my a-arms or tie rods. The helmet-sized ones I just put my wheels on & ride over them rather than straddling them. If not possible I find another line thru the section. I think I would get the parts you need from a dealer in order to get the correct part nos. & any incidentals such as washers bushings, etc. It may cost you more but you'll get the right parts.

P.S. After posting this I checked my Yamaha shop manual & it isn't very detailed as to replacing tie rods, so you may want to check out the Clymer manual.


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THE AZ HARD PACKER, calmiller@kachina.net

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[This message has been edited by hot_shoe_cv (edited 11-25-1999).]