tie rod issues

[SCswampfox]

Just purchased a 77 CJ7 that has recently been involved in a accident on the highway. The right front leaf spring was shot and was replaced. There is a 4" skyjacker supsension lift on it. I am having issues with the tie rod and drag link positions. The original tie rod was bent and bowed and needed to be replaced. When installing the new tie rod, it rests completely on the leafsprings and is rather difficult to insert the pins into the control arm eyes despite making adjustments on the tie rod. I know it can't rest on the springs. Anyone with any pointers I would greatly appreciate the help. Thanx

 

[BusaDave9]

Do you still have the axle over the springs or was a converson done?
You might want to raise the tie rods. Previously we had a thread about this;
http://www.jeep-cj.com/forums/f19/tie-rod-flip-3718/

 

[Old Dog]

You usually have to jack the jeep up by the bumper, or set the frame on jackstands to let the supension drop to have room enough to get the ends in. They are very close to the springs but they should not be touching when in.