Link element with overload protection

The invention concerns a link element, such as a tie rod, for the coupling connection between two modules. The link element includes at least two substantially rod-shaped arm sections (6, 7), said arm sections (6, 7) connected together by an overload protection (8) and in case of overload being axially movable against each other. The link element according to the invention is characterized by the fact that the overload protection (8) comprises at least one the two arm sections (6, 7) engages positively rigidly connecting shearing element (9) made of metal. Here, the shearing member is selectable modular or interchangeable, and the overload protection (8) has at least one rigid stop (10) for limiting the axial relative movement path of the two arm sections (6, 7) in the event of an overload on. The link element according to the invention is modular adaptable has a high stiffness during normal operation and a defined, reproducible failure behavior in case of overload. It provides a defined deformation in the event of failure, willing and remains limited after-onset overload functional. for example when used on the chassis of a motor vehicle - - Moreover link element of the invention allows, without further components or devices a unique signaling the occurred in the landing gear damage or overload on the vehicle driver.