Tie rod ends not pressing in!! HELP.

[leo2hot4tv]

Hey guys,

I just bought the XRF front suspension kit. Here's a link:

XRF Ford F150 | Expedition 2wd Ball Joint | Control Arm | Tie Rod End Suspension Rebuild Kit

I was able to install the whole thing, minus the upper arm which I had to purcahse locally due to due to improperly spaced bushings. The problem I'm having is that I can't get the tie rod ends to go in enough for the nut to clear the cotter pin hole. I am having the same problem for both inner and both outers. I am able to get the nut in to the point where the threads almost get past the top but I'm not anywhere near to be able to put in the pin. I have tried using the balljoint press to try and press them in but I didn't push it too far to avoid damaging the tie rod. I've torque the living crap out of them but I don't want to keep going in case the nut gives way. Anyone have this same problem? How can I fix it? What are the torque specs for these?

Any help or suggestion is greatly appreciated.

 

[Blueline]

You can maybe try freezing them but now that they are in its going to be difficult unless you can get them out without damaging them. GL

 

[Lightning03!]

is the center link and spindles the same as a lightning vs a regular f150?

 

[leo2hot4tv]

is the center link and spindles the same as a lightning vs a regular f150?

From what they told me it is. The kit says it fits all of them. I even called and asked.

 

[WhiTriCobra]

2wd is different from 4x4, and you would def tell from the upper control arms. 2wd are smaller. Usually for ball joints, i stick them in the freezer and it usually works. I just did my tie rods but i didn't freeze them and had zero issues. They should just go all they way in. I've never seen any that wouldn't and needed persuasion to fit. Is there a part number for it? if so, reference it on google just to make sure.