Apex Chassis 2.5 Ton ProLock Tie Rod & Drag Link Kit — Jeep Wrangler JL / Gladiator JT (DOM Steel, Flip Kit / Over-Knuckle) SKU: KIT115 — Dana 44 Wide (61.5") — Flip Kit

Verified Fitment

This is the flip-kit (over-knuckle) configuration. It includes a taper sleeve. The knuckle drag link mount must be drilled through with a straight 7/8" drill bit during installation.

Dana 44 axle width is a critical selection point. This SKU is built for the wide Dana 44 axle, with a tie rod measuring 60.5"–61.5" ball stud center to ball stud center. Typically found on Rubicon, Mohave, and Max Tow Package builds. The Dana 30 and narrow Dana 44 (Sport/Sahara) measure 57.5"–58.5" and require the separate narrow variant. Confirm your axle width before ordering.

Axle fitment: Fits stock Dana 30/44 axles. Dana 60-equipped Jeeps may be accommodated with modifications — contact Apex directly before ordering.

Lift height guidance: This flip-kit configuration is typically suggested for lifts over 4.5 inches.

Rock crawling note: DOM steel connecting rods are not designed for rock crawling. If the rods are impacted heavily on a rock they may bend, and impact damage is not covered under warranty. Owners who intend to rock crawl should consider Apex's aluminum rod variants.

Component Specifications

What Is and Is NOT Included

Included:

• Tie rod assembly with 1.75" DOM steel tube (rod ends TR181K and TR182K)
• Drag link assembly with 1.75" DOM steel tube (rod ends DL112KF knuckle side and DL111K pitman arm side)
• Taper sleeve (for flip-kit knuckle mount)
• ProLock keyway washers (pre-bent, for keyway rod ends)
• Belleville washers (for non-keyway rod ends and as alternative where further adjustment is needed — use one type only, not both)
• Jam nuts with integrated set screws
• Grade 8 / Class 10.9 hardware, castle nuts
• Zerk fittings (pre-greased)

Not included:

• Steering stabilizer bracket — must be selected separately based on stabilizer in use
• Steering stabilizer (sold separately)
• Wrench kit required for installation — KIT521 (2x WR112 41mm/46mm), sold separately
• Thread locker (for set screws after alignment; not included)
• Anti-seize compound (for adjusting sleeve threads; not included)
• Replacement set screws (sold separately, part number XP172)

Critical Compatibility

• Dana 44 wide axle — this SKU only: This kit is sized for the wide Dana 44 axle (tie rod measures 60.5"–61.5" ball stud center to center). Typically found on Rubicon, Mohave, and Max Tow Package builds.
• Dana 30 / Narrow Dana 44: Do not order this SKU for a Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44 axle. Those axles measure 57.5"–58.5" and require the narrow variant of KIT115.
• Dana 60 axles: May be accommodated with modifications — contact Apex directly before ordering.
• Lift height: This flip-kit configuration is typically suggested for lifts over 4.5 inches.
• Knuckle drilling required: Installation requires drilling the knuckle drag link mount with a straight 7/8" drill bit before inserting the included taper sleeve.
• Rock crawling: DOM steel rods are not designed for rock crawling. Heavy rock impact may bend the rods and is not covered under warranty.
• Taper sleeve: Included with this flip-kit variant. Must be inserted into the drilled knuckle before installing the drag link.
• Stabilizer bracket: Not included. Select the appropriate stabilizer bracket separately based on your steering stabilizer setup.
• Anti-flop bearing: Tie rod ends include Flopper Stopper anti-flop bearings. Do not tighten the jam nuts against these bearings. See Installation Notes for the required torquing sequence.
• Minimum engagement mark: If the minimum engagement mark on the drag link end threads is visible, thread engagement is insufficient. Adjust the sleeve position or address lift height as required.
• ProLock vs. Belleville washers: ProLock keyway washers install on keyway rod ends. Belleville washers install on non-keyway rod ends and may be used in place of ProLock washers where further adjustment is needed. Do not use both types on the same end simultaneously.
• Drag link end part number: The knuckle-side drag link end for the flip-kit is DL112KF — not the same as the no-flip variant (DL112K). Confirm the correct part number when ordering replacement ends.

Installation Notes

Safety warning: Steering is a critical safety component. The installer must read and follow the provided installation instructions in full before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions may result in loss of vehicle control, accident, and injury. Failure to use correct installation tools or follow correct procedures may also void the warranty. Installation instructions must be present through the full installation process, including alignment.

Required tools:
Apex wrench kit KIT521 — 2x WR112 41mm/46mm (sold separately)
7/8" drill bit (for knuckle drilling; not included)

Required consumables:

• Thread locker (for set screws after alignment)
• Anti-seize compound (for inside threads of adjusting sleeve only — do not apply to rod end threads)
• High-pressure lithium grease

Tie rod rod ends: TR181K (driver) and TR182K (passenger)
Drag link rod ends: DL112KF (knuckle side — flip-specific) and DL111K (pitman arm side)

Installation summary:

1. Before removing the OEM tie rod and drag link assemblies, measure from Zerk fitting to Zerk fitting on each and record those measurements for reference.
2. Thread the jam nuts all the way down the tie rod ends. Install the pre-bent ProLock keyway washer onto the keyway tie rod end with the bent side facing toward the adjusting sleeve. Install the serrated Belleville washer onto the opposite non-keyway tie rod end.
3. Locate the left-hand side of the tie rod adjusting sleeve (cut line toward the end of the rod; notches in the jam nut on the left tie rod end). Apply anti-seize to the inside threads of the adjusting sleeve only — not the tie rod end threads. Thread the left tie rod end in the correct direction until it reaches the jam nut. Repeat for the right-hand side.
4. Assemble the drag link: install the pre-bent ProLock keyway washer onto the keyway drag link ends with the bent side facing toward the adjusting sleeve. Belleville washers may be substituted where further adjustment is needed — use one type only, not both. Apply anti-seize to the inside threads of the drag link adjusting rod only — not the drag link end threads.
5. The knuckle-side drag link end for the flip kit is DL112KF. Drill the knuckle drag link mount with a straight 7/8" drill bit, keeping the hole straight. Insert the included taper sleeve into the drilled hole, then install the drag link.
6. Remove the OEM tie rod and drag link assemblies.
7. Apply a light layer of grease to the top of each boot before installation to reduce friction between the boot and the joint.
8. Install the drag link first — knuckle side first, then pitman arm side. Torque the castle nuts to 75–82 ft-lbs. Leave the jam nuts loose. With tires pointing straight ahead, center the steering wheel by rotating the drag link tube until aligned.
9. Install the tie rod assembly. Torque the castle nuts to 63–67 ft-lbs. Rotate the tube to match the previously recorded measurements. Leave the jam nuts loose. Use a tape measure to set toe to factory specifications. Anti-flop bearing note: Tie rod ends include Flopper Stopper bearings allowing 4 degrees of forward and back rotation. Do not tighten against these bearings. Tighten the passenger side jam nut first, then center the flop in the bearing while tightening the driver's side jam nut. When both jam nuts are tight, approximately 4 degrees of forward and back rotation should remain.
10. Tighten all jam nuts on the tie rods and drag links and torque to 150 ft-lbs.
11. Have a professional complete a full alignment before driving.
12. After alignment is complete, use a hammer to tap the ProLock keyway washers onto the adjusting sleeve. Apply thread locker to all set screws in the jam nuts and torque to 8–10 ft-lbs. Only after alignment is complete.
13. Set and adjust the steering stabilizer, confirming equal travel at full lock in both directions (follow steering stabilizer manufacturer instructions).
14. Check jam nuts for tightness at 500 miles. Continue to check every 5,000 miles or at every oil change.

The Obsidian Take

This wide Dana 44 flip-kit variant of the KIT115 is the over-knuckle configuration for 2018–2026 Wrangler JL and 2019–2026 Gladiator JT builds on the wide Dana 44 axle running lifts over 4.5 inches — typically Rubicon, Mohave, and Max Tow Package builds. Construction, installation procedure, and limitations are identical to the narrow Dana 44 flip-kit variant: taper sleeve included and required, knuckle must be drilled with a 7/8" bit, knuckle-side drag link end is the flip-specific DL112KF, DOM steel rods are not warranted against rock-crawling impact, and a professional alignment is required before driving. The only variant-specific difference is the wide axle tie rod length (60.5"–61.5" center to center). Narrow axle (Sport/Sahara) owners need the Dana 30 / Narrow Dana 44 flip-kit variant.

This Product Is For You If

• You own a 2018–2026 Jeep Wrangler JL or 2019–2026 Jeep Gladiator JT on a wide Dana 44 axle (60.5"–61.5" tie rod center-to-center). Typically Rubicon, Mohave, or Max Tow Package builds.
• Your current lift is over 4.5 inches, making the flip-kit over-knuckle configuration appropriate.
• You are prepared to drill the knuckle drag link mount with a 7/8" bit and insert the included taper sleeve.
• You are not planning heavy rock crawling — DOM steel rods are not warranted against impact damage.
• You want a complete ProLock tie rod and drag link replacement with Flopper Stopper anti-flop bearings built into the tie rod ends.
• You are prepared for a professional-level installation requiring KIT521, knuckle drilling, toe-setting, a professional alignment, and ProLock tab hammering after alignment.

This Product Is Not For You If

• Your Jeep has a Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44 axle (57.5"–58.5" tie rod center-to-center) — select the narrow variant of KIT115.
• Your lift is 4.5 inches or less — use the no-flip under-knuckle variant instead.
• You have a Dana 60 axle and have not confirmed compatibility with Apex before ordering.
• You plan to rock crawl heavily — DOM steel rods may bend under heavy rock impact and impact damage is not covered under warranty.
• You are not prepared to drill the knuckle drag link mount during installation.
• You do not have or are not prepared to obtain Apex wrench kit KIT521 before installation.
• You prefer aluminum rod options — Apex offers aluminum variants for this application.

Product Family Reference

The KIT115 is available in both wide Dana 44 and Dana 30 / Narrow Dana 44 configurations, in no-flip and flip-kit variants, and in DOM steel and aluminum rod options. Confirm your exact axle width, lift height, and rod material before ordering.

Common Questions

How do I know if I have a wide or narrow Dana 44?
Measure the tie rod center-to-center distance on your OEM tie rod. Wide Dana 44 measures 60.5"–61.5". Narrow Dana 44 and Dana 30 measure 57.5"–58.5". Rubicon, Mohave, and Max Tow Package models typically have the wide Dana 44.

I have a Sport or Sahara — is this the right kit?
No. Sport and Sahara models typically have the Dana 30 or narrow Dana 44. Order the Dana 30 / Narrow Dana 44 variant of KIT115.

Why does the flip kit require drilling the knuckle?
The over-knuckle mount uses a taper sleeve that must be inserted into a straight hole drilled through the knuckle drag link mount. This step is required and cannot be skipped.

What is the difference between DL112K and DL112KF?
DL112KF is the flip-kit-specific knuckle-side drag link end. It differs from DL112K used in the no-flip variant. Confirm you are ordering the flip-kit-specific part when sourcing replacements.

Can I use both ProLock washers and Belleville washers on the same end?
No. Use one type only per end. ProLock keyway washers install on keyway rod ends and Belleville washers install on non-keyway rod ends. Do not use both types on the same end simultaneously.

Can I use this kit for rock crawling?
DOM steel rods are not designed for rock crawling. Heavy rock impact may bend the rods, and impact damage is not covered under warranty. Apex's aluminum rod variants are recommended for rock crawling use.

Do I need a steering stabilizer bracket?
Yes, but it is not included. Select the appropriate bracket based on your steering stabilizer setup.

Do I need special tools?
Yes. Apex wrench kit KIT521 — 2x WR112 41mm/46mm — sold separately. A 7/8" drill bit is also required and not included.

Is a professional alignment required?
Yes. Set toe to factory specifications before torquing the jam nuts, then have a professional complete a full alignment before driving. ProLock tabs are hammered down and set screws are torqued only after alignment is complete.

How often should I check the jam nuts?
At 500 miles after installation, then every 5,000 miles or at every oil change.

What are the replacement set screws?
Replacement set screws for tie rod and drag link are Apex part number XP172, sold separately.

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. Impact damage to DOM steel rods is not covered. 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 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. Impact damage to DOM steel connecting rods is not covered. 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.