Delphi TA5485 Steering Tie Rod End - Rear Outer

Delphi Rear Outer Tie Rod End TA5485

Delphi TA5485 is a standard replacement steering tie rod end built for rear outer applications on select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. It uses OE-focused dimensional and material analysis to support proper fit and steering response, with testing that includes extreme temperature exposure and salt spray resistance.

Key Features

• Rear outer steering tie rod end for select applications
• Pre-greased design with no grease fitting required
• Dust boot included to help protect the joint
• Steel housing and steel tie rod construction
• Coated black finish for added corrosion resistance
• Adjustable straight design
• Mounting hardware included
• Male end 2 with clockwise thread direction

Detailed Description

The Delphi TA5485 steering tie rod end is engineered as a standard replacement for rear outer steering service. It features a pre-greased, non-greaseable design, a chloroprene rubber dust boot, and a coated steel body to support long-term durability in demanding steering environments. Delphi applies OE-level dimensional and material analysis to help ensure proper match-up with the original part, making this a practical choice for restoring steering linkage performance on vehicles such as the Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and Mercury Mountaineer. This part cross-references Mevotech Supreme MS40725 for the same application.

Vehicle Fitment

• Fits 2001 Ford Explorer, rear outer.
• Fits 2002 Ford Explorer, rear outer, to 03/03/2002; with 15mm studs; without 16in wheels.
• Fits 2003-2005 Ford Explorer, rear outer.
• Fits 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, rear outer.
• Fits 2002 Mercury Mountaineer, rear outer, with 15mm studs; with 17" wheels; to 03/03/2002.
• Fits 2003-2005 Mercury Mountaineer, rear outer.

Common Repair Uses

• Loose or imprecise rear steering feel
• Clunking or play from worn steering linkage joints
• Uneven tire wear caused by steering geometry wear
• Corrosion-related tie rod end deterioration
• Replacement after inspection shows boot or joint wear

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm rear outer position, stud size, wheel configuration, and production date before installation. This part is adjustable and includes mounting hardware, so alignment should be checked after replacement. Verify thread direction and dimensions against the original component before final assembly.

Quality Assurance

Delphi subjects its steering components to extreme temperature testing below -40 degrees C and above 120 degrees C, along with 720 hours of salt spray exposure. The TA5485 is backed by Delphi’s OE-focused engineering approach for aftermarket steering replacement.