Apex ProLock Tie Rod & Drag Link Assembly — SKU: KIT120 — Black Anodized Aluminum | Dana 30/44 Narrow Axle | Standard Mount (No Flip) | Jam Nut Wrenches Included | Jeep Wrangler JL 2018–2026 / Gladiator JT 2019–2026 4WD

Overview

This is a complete replacement tie rod and drag link kit for the Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT — a black anodized aluminum 2" 7075-T6 tie rod and drag link, each using forged steel tie rod and drag link ends, Apex's ProLock keyway washer system, and zerk-fitting serviceability. This exact configuration is built for the Dana 30 / narrow Dana 44 front axle and uses the standard under-knuckle mount (no taper sleeve or knuckle drilling required), with jam nut wrenches (KIT521) included.

Before ordering: This kit fits the Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44 front axle only — typically found on non-Rubicon trims (Sport, Sahara). Wide Dana 44 axles (typically Rubicon, Mohave, Max Tow Package) require a different, wide-axle version of this kit — not this SKU. To confirm your axle width, measure ball-stud center to ball-stud center on your factory tie rod: narrow Dana 44 measures 57½"–58½"; wide Dana 44 measures 60½"–61½". This configuration is the standard under-knuckle mount, typically suggested for lifts of 4.5" or less — no taper sleeve and no knuckle drilling are required. If your Jeep has been upgraded to a Dana 60 axle, contact Apex directly for available modifications; this kit as configured does not cover that application.

Required separately: A steering stabilizer bracket is not included and must be selected separately based on the steering stabilizer you run. A steering stabilizer, thread locker (blue Loctite 243 or Permatex 24206), anti-seize for adjusting-sleeve threads only, and a professional alignment are also required and not included. Jam nut wrenches (KIT521, 2x WR112 41mm/46mm) are included in this configuration.

Verified Fitment

Wide Dana 44 axle trucks (typically Rubicon, Mohave, Max Tow Package) require the wide-axle version of this kit — not this SKU. Dana 60 upgrades require contacting Apex directly.

Component Specifications

What Is and Is NOT Included

Included:

• Complete tie rod assembly — 2" 7075-T6 black anodized aluminum adjusting sleeve, forged steel E-coated ends (TR181K, TR182K)
• Complete drag link assembly — 2" 7075-T6 black anodized aluminum adjusting sleeve, forged steel E-coated ends (DL112K, DL111K)
• ProLock keyway washers and Belleville washer alternates
• Jam nuts with integrated set screws
• Grade 8 / Class 10.9 hardware, castle nuts
• Zerk fittings (pre-threaded, pre-greased)
• Jam nut wrenches — KIT521 (2x WR112 41mm/46mm), per this configuration's "Yes" selection

Not included:

• Steering stabilizer bracket (must be selected separately based on the steering stabilizer used)
• Steering stabilizer
• Replacement set screws (XP172, tie rod and drag link, sold separately)
• Thread locker (blue Loctite 243 or blue Permatex 24206 recommended)
• Anti-seize compound (for adjusting sleeve threads only)

Critical Compatibility

• Axle width: This configuration fits the Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44 front axle only. Confirm by measuring ball-stud center to ball-stud center on your factory tie rod: 57½"–58½" indicates narrow Dana 44 (correct for this kit); 60½"–61½" indicates wide Dana 44, which requires a different kit.
• Dana 60 upgrades: Not covered by this configuration. Contact Apex directly for available modifications.
• Mount configuration: This is the standard under-knuckle mount — typically suggested for lifts of 4.5" or less. No taper sleeve or knuckle drilling is required. Lifts over 4.5" typically call for the Flip Kit configuration instead.
• Washer selection: Use either the ProLock keyway washer or the Belleville washer to secure a given jam nut — never both on the same joint.
• Anti-flop bearing (tie rod): Allows approximately 4° of forward/back rotation once properly installed. Tighten the passenger side jam nut first, then center the flop while tightening the driver's side jam nut, so approximately 4° of rotation remains once both are torqued.
• Minimum engagement mark — drag link: If visible on the drag link end threads, thread engagement is insufficient — this may indicate a lift height that calls for the Flip Kit configuration instead, or the adjusting sleeve may need to be re-equalized between the two ends.
• Grease volume: Joints have very little internal clearance. Use only ½ to 1 pump of grease per joint — overfilling can cause seals to pop or tear, leading to premature failure.
• Steering stabilizer bracket: Not included with this kit — select the correct bracket separately based on your steering stabilizer.

Installation Notes

Steering components are safety-critical. Professional installation is strongly recommended, and a professional alignment must be completed before operating the vehicle. The installer must follow the current Apex Chassis standard (No Flip) installation instructions supplied with the product throughout installation and alignment.

Required for this configuration: Jam nut wrenches KIT521 (2x WR112 41mm/46mm) — included; medium-strength blue thread locker (Loctite 243 or Permatex 24206); and anti-seize compound for the internal adjusting-sleeve threads only.

Drag link castle nuts torque to 75–82 ft/lbs; tie rod castle nuts torque to 75–82 ft/lbs; jam nuts on both assemblies torque to 150 ft/lbs; jam-nut set screws torque to 8–10 ft/lbs, applied only after alignment. After alignment, hammer-tap the ProLock tabs down firmly against the wrench flats to secure the lock. Use only ½ to 1 pump of grease per joint when re-greasing. Set and adjust the steering stabilizer for equal travel at full lock in both directions before operating the vehicle.

Inspect jam-nut position after the initial 500 miles and then every 5,000 miles or at each oil change, consistent with Apex's maintenance guidance. Refer to the current Apex Chassis standard (No Flip) installation instructions supplied with this kit for complete procedures, torque specifications, and all safety requirements.

The Obsidian Take

This KIT120 configuration is Apex's black anodized aluminum tie rod and drag link kit for the Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT running the Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44 front axle — set up as a standard under-knuckle mount for lifts of 4.5" or less, with jam nut wrenches included. Confirm these application conditions before ordering: this kit is axle-width specific, so measure your factory tie rod before ordering if you're unsure whether your Dana 44 is narrow or wide, and if your lift exceeds 4.5" the Flip Kit configuration is typically the better fit instead. A steering stabilizer bracket is not included and must be matched to your stabilizer separately.

This Product Is For You If

• You own a 2018–2026 Jeep Wrangler JL or 2019–2026 Gladiator JT with a Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44 front axle (typically Sport or Sahara trim).
• You are running a lift of 4.5" or less and want the standard under-knuckle mount.
• You want jam nut wrenches included with your order.
• You are prepared for a professional-level installation with specific torque values and a required professional alignment.
• You are prepared to select and purchase a steering stabilizer bracket separately, matched to your stabilizer.

This Product Is Not For You If

• Your Jeep has a wide Dana 44 front axle (typically Rubicon, Mohave, or Max Tow Package trim) — you need the wide-axle version of this kit, not this SKU.
• Your Jeep has been upgraded to a Dana 60 axle and you have not contacted Apex to confirm available modifications.
• Your lift exceeds 4.5" — the Flip Kit (over-knuckle) configuration is typically the better fit.
• You do not already have, or are not ordering, a steering stabilizer bracket matched to your stabilizer.
• You plan to use both ProLock and Belleville washers on the same joint — use one or the other only.

Product Family Reference

For lifts over 4.5", see the KIT120 Flip Kit (over-knuckle) configuration for this same Dana 30/44 narrow axle application. For the wide Dana 44 axle (typically Rubicon, Mohave, Max Tow Package), see the KIT120 wide-axle configuration.

Common Questions

How do I know if I have a narrow or wide Dana 44?
Measure your factory tie rod ball-stud center to ball-stud center. 57½"–58½" is narrow Dana 44 (this kit applies). 60½"–61½" is wide Dana 44 (a different kit is required).

Does this fit the Rubicon?
Rubicon trucks typically run the wide Dana 44 axle, which requires the wide-axle version of this kit, not this narrow-axle SKU. Confirm your axle width by measurement if unsure.

Do I need the Flip Kit instead of this standard mount?
This standard under-knuckle mount is typically suggested for lifts of 4.5" or less. For lifts over 4.5", the Flip Kit (over-knuckle mount with taper sleeve) is typically the better fit.

Is a steering stabilizer bracket included?
No. It must be selected separately based on the steering stabilizer you use.

Are jam nut wrenches included?
Yes, for this configuration — KIT521 (2x WR112 41mm/46mm) is included.

Can I use Belleville washers instead of the ProLock keyway washers?
Yes, on the applicable joints — but never use both a ProLock and a Belleville washer on the same joint.

How much grease do the joints need?
Only ½ to 1 pump of grease per joint. There's very little internal clearance — overfilling can cause seals to pop or tear, leading to premature failure.

Is a professional alignment required?
A professional alignment must be completed before operating the vehicle. Professional installation is strongly recommended. Thread locker and set-screw torque are applied only after alignment.

What is the replacement set screw part number?
XP172, for both the tie rod and drag link.

What is the warranty?
Apex covers manufacturer defects, premature wear, and breakage for the life of the vehicle, as long as the original purchaser owns the vehicle, with product registration required within 90 days of purchase. See full warranty summary below.

Manufacturer Data Disclaimer

Fitment, specification, compatibility, installation, and warranty data for this kit are sourced from Apex Chassis manufacturer product documentation and installation instructions, and OFAS-verified product data current as of publication. Specifications are subject to change without notice; confirm current documentation for this SKU and configuration at the time of purchase.

Required Legal, Warning, Fitment, and Return Notices

Safety Warning: Steering is a critical safety component. The installer must read and follow the provided installation instructions in full. Failure to follow these instructions may result in loss of vehicle control, accident, and injury. Failure to follow installation instructions and use correct installation tools may also void the warranty.

Warranty Summary: Apex Chassis warrants this product against manufacturer defects, premature wear, and breakage for the life of the vehicle, provided the original purchaser continues to own the vehicle. The product must be purchased through Apex Chassis directly or through an authorized Apex dealer, and must be registered with proof of purchase within 90 days of purchase. Products not registered within 90 days are covered only for 90 days from the date of purchase. Apex will, at its sole discretion, replace the defective part and cover ground shipping, or refund the original purchase price. Labor for removal or reinstallation is not covered. This warranty does not cover cosmetic imperfections, boots, bushings, or Heim-style joints, which are considered regular wear items. The warranty is void if the component is improperly installed, modified, or used in an application for which it was not designed, as determined at Apex's sole discretion. This warranty is governed by the laws of the State of Arizona.