those are called threads, and you cant judge anything by them. only count the threads and put your new stuff on to that count. but this is easier VVVVVVV
when you take your old tie rod off, break the lock nut free, then put it back to the tie rod hand tight, then take the tie rod off, leave the lock nut in place and install the new tie rod to the old lock nut, make the nut tight, ( the inner rod spins, so it dont matter what angle its at when it hits the lock nut) thats as close as your gonna get it.
