Tie rod adjusting sleeves

Did you try spinning the tie rod in backwards aka counter clockwise?

Yes I did. One end reverse thread went in like a dream...(on both the left and right) but the other end, regardless of direction, would not go in smoothly. Checked for burs on the end thread, none noted. Tried some graphite grease to move things along and that didn't help either. Thought I might be able to run it through and resolve, but that was a bench vice and pliers to rotate effort. Somehow that doesn't seem right

Sleeve clamps were completely loose.

(note that I always assume I'm doing something wrong.... )