What is the purpose of track rod bushing?

kevs4jc · Nov 5th, 2012, 07:31 PM

I have a 1995 Nissan Pathfinder. I went to get my front suspension checked and they say for me to have my inner and outer tie rod changed. They also said that I have to get 4 new "track rod" bushings. What is the purpose of track rod bushings? I thought that track rod is just another name for tie rod. I also thought that since we are replacing the tie rod ends, what is the need then for the bushing?
Anyway, any help would be appreciated.
Thank You.

IanH · Nov 20th, 2012, 08:25 AM

I am not sure they are calling the part by the right name..???

485 Steering Linkage :: Steering :: Genuine Nissan Parts :: Pathfinder Parts (WD21) 1987-1995 :: Nissan Parts, NISMO and Nissan Accessories - Courtesyparts.com

Could they mean the Suspension Arm bushings ??

**rogoman** · Nov 20th, 2012, 09:23 AM

They may be referring to the relay rod that has 4 swivel joints.

kevs4jc · Nov 20th, 2012, 04:05 PM

And they are charging me $95 ($54USD) for each of the 'track rod bushings'. They quoted for me to buy 8 of these bushings. I inquired them about it, and the guy at the counter said that he couldn't understand what track rod bushings are. The guy that did the quote probably quoted it wrongly. lol.

SPEEDO · Nov 29th, 2012, 09:12 AM

there are tension rod bushings (4)
in the rear, there are upper & lower link bushings (8)

**smj999smj** · Nov 29th, 2012, 03:51 PM

When I hear the term "track rod" or "tracking rod," it makes me think of rear suspension like that used on old Chevy's and NASCAR vehicles. That would make me think of the rear suspension. But "track rod" is also a term for tie rods, both inner and outer, as well. It's bit of a generic term. Considering they said "bushings," it would be more likely refering the rear suspension links, sometimes called radius rods. The only way to know for sure is to call the shop back and ask them what parts they are talking about.