Tie Rod question

[dlinebar 2]

Hi all,

 

I want to replace my tie rods, the boots are rotted and I just want to to make me feel safer. I have not done this before and want some advice. What else should I replace. The tie rod sleeves? anything else? It does not seem to hard to do. How long does it take?

 

I don't think they are bad the just look old. I put the car on a lift and tried to pust the tire in several directions to feel for plan and it was rock solid so I may not even need them but its almost 40 years old and for all I can tell these are original....any advice?

 

Thanks,

Dan

[Protowrxs 111]

Personally I'd replace both the inner and outers while doing it Dan. It isn't difficult but it's not as cheap as I would have expected either.

 

I went with Moog eqiupment and I think the inners were $45 or so each and the outers $35 each from the local Orielly's.

 

I know it's not really needed but I am going to replace the tie rod sleeves with something better like this:

http://www.mustangsplus.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=MPFMP&Product_Code=04985&Category_Code=sleeve

 

I think standard adjustment sleeves are $28 or so for the pair but I always hated using those split sleeves.

 

I understand the key is removing what you have in one piece, measure the center to center and make your new ones match as close as possible. Just need to check toe in after that which should be real close if the old one aren't worn out.

 

-Stephen

[bnickel 10,004]

i would still recommend an alignment afterwards just to be on the safe side, tires are expensive.

 

also you can just replace the boots if the tie-rods are in good shape.

[Protowrxs 111]

True, you could get it re-aligned but tie rod ends are only going to affect toe. Of course you really can't get toe in set perfectly in the driveway but I've done it many, many times over the years.

 

-Stephen