New rack + tie rod installation?

[iTurbo]

I've had it with dealing with crapped out lousy steering on my TDs, so I've decided to get new rack & pinion assemblies for all three of them (GLH, SL, R/T). I'm also replacing all the power steering components and the outer tie rods.

How do I know how many turns to thread on the outer tie rods so I can at least get it aligned? Should I just count how many turns it took to get the old outer tie rods off the old rack, and reinstall them with the same number of turns on each respective side?

[Moparbishi]

that and adjust the outer ties the same # of threads as the old one.
least that is what i did

[xtz]

if you're serious about doing it that way, measure the distance from the inside boot of the rack to the tierod end lock bolt. I changed a rack recently and didn't consider that when they do an alignment they can spin the tierods, which likely changes the distance the tierod ends are from the rack (and the aligment).

I tried doing it based on spins/thread count, and realized after pulling the original apart, that measuring would be more accurate. might be splitting hairs, but its better to be sure, unless you'll get it aligned quickly.

[iTurbo]

I plan on driving right to the alignment shop, but I'll try measuring anyway. Thanks!

[als]

18 to 24 turns will be close sum go only 15/16 other 24/28 any wear is good. have them set toe 1/32 or .06 in or + . i like camber at 1/4 to1/2 neg. caster n/a so if it pulls cross the front tires. good luck ALS