What is a steering spindle/knuckle?
In a suspension system a steering knuckle holds the bearings and connects the steering and suspension to the rotating components. The steering knuckle is sometimes also called an upright or hub. The tire assembly and wheel connect to the hub or spindle of the knuckle where the wheel spins while maintaining a steady range of motion by the knuckle or suspension assembly. The spindle is a part of the suspension system that carries the hub for the wheel and attaches to the upper and lower control arms.
Your steering system
The purpose of the steering system on your truck is to convert rotary movement of the steering wheel into angular movement of the front wheels. The axle supports the front wheels by aid of linkage and the steering box. The front wheels are connected to the steering wheel so they can can spin without the danger of a lateral slip. The steering system also helps in part to cushion road shocks.
Looking to upgrade your steering system?

Take a look at the Cognito Heavy Duty Tierod Kit w/ Spindle/Knuckle. This system is for use on the 2001-2010 6.6L GM Duramax and is intended to replace the factory tie rod assemblies from the ends of the drag link to the spindles. It was engineered to get rid of the factory outer tie rod and the inner ball and socket joint. These components are exchanged with semi joint rod end units. The Cognito Heavy Duty Tie Rod Kit uses right and left hand threads as well as a straight adjuster tube to refine toe settings.
Self-Lubricating rod ends
These kits are made from 1 inch diameter DOM steel tubing for ultimate strength and durability. These are meant to replace the factory adjusters that neck down at the threads. Factory adjusters are well known for bending where the threads connect to the outer tie rod. The Cognito system replaces the inferior inner ball and socket found in factory systems. Cognito use rod ends that have a 3/4 inch shank and body with a 5/8 inch hole for the mounting points. Cognito line the rod ends with Teflon enabling them to lubricated themselves!
Purpose of tie rods
The tie rod is part of the steering apparatus in a vehicle. It is a structural rod used as a tie and capable of carrying tensile loads only. Tie rods consist of an outer and inner end. They spread force from the steering center link to the steering knuckle. This causes the wheel to turn. The outer tie rod end connects with an adjustable sleeve which is used to set a vehicles alignment angle. A worn tire rod can lead to unreliable steering and major tire wear or damage.
What other components of my steering system would I want to upgrade?
Another important component to your steering system and worth upgrading is the Center link. A center link can aid in stopping the large amount of play you may be noticing in your steering. Center links have been known to fail after some time. Upgrading to a stronger and more dependable than stock part will eliminate this concern. One method of determining if your center link is not working correctly is to hold onto it and see if it is wobbling. Make sure to check for cracking or excessive wear. OC DIESEL suggests the PPE Center Link with Puller made for the 2001-2010 6.6L GM Duramax. It is constructed of 304 stainless steel, come with a one year warranty, and will greatly aid with strengthening your steering system.

While you’re at it, OC DIESEL also recommends upgrading the steering mechanism on your truck with the PPE Pitman Idler Arm Support Kit.

This kit is made for the 2001-2010 6.6L GM Duramax 2WD & 4WD 2500HD & 3500. The addition of an upgraded Idler Arm product can increase strength and durability by replacing weak, breakable stock parts which can prevent costly repairs. This is a must for lifted trucks, bigger tires, drag racing, and off -roading.
The Pitman arm is a linkage attached to the steering gear that changes the angular motion of the sector shaft in the linear motion necessary for steering the wheels. The Pitman Arm is held by the sector shaft and supports the center link with a ball joint. It transfers the motion it receives from the steering box into the center link, making it move from left to right to turn the wheels in the right direction. The Idler Arm is connected between the opposite side of the center link from the Pitman arm and the trucks frame to hold the center link at the correct height.
OC DIESEL carries all parts and components for steering systems and every other product or accessory for diesel vehicles. Visit our website at www.OCDIESEL.com
Give us a call at 714-848-2170 M-F from 8-5 PST – We will answer your questions regarding Steering Systems. Ask about Free Shipping!
Live locally? We install the Cognito Heavy Duty Tie Rod Kit w/ Spindle/Knuckle! Feel free to stop by our location and meet us! OC DIESEL, INC. is located at 17242 Gothard Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 Suites A and B. We have a full service shop staffed with knowledgeable technicians who are ready to squash any Diesel Repair issues.
