Just found a new prob on my 01. Where the tie rod end goes thru the knuckle (I think that's what it's called) and the nut goes on the threaded shaft. That piece of aluminum is cracked from top to bottom along the tie rod end threads. It's got a gap about an 1/8" wide. Can that be safely welded?

 

It shoud be able to be safely welded, I can't say with any certainty without seeing it. But if your asking that question, don't do it yourself. Welding aluminum is extreamly difficult as it has a tendancy to deform by twisting and expanding. You might weld it only to find out that it won't fit.

So you should either have this professionally welded or better yet, get a new one and replace it. A much less chance of catostrophic failure in the end and a safer ride.

 

You mean the spindle and tie rod are cracked? I would definitely suggest replacing them if that is the case.

 

I think that in the interest of safety for my family, and the people that may be around the car if a weld should fail I'm going to trash that whole idea.

 

I found one at the junk yard for $35.00. I had went to the GM dealer and they wanted $400.00 for a new one.

 

Sweet Deal!!! And it should be perfectly safe!