Steering Rack Boots

[kyreb1862]

At my last oil change I happened to check out my steering rack boots. These boots are less than one year old but one has already failed. Top quality Chinese junk. My question is this, Is it possible to change out this boot without having to pull the tie rod end from the steering arm? I have never managed to do this without screwing up the booit on the tie rod end boot.

Regards John

 

[Steve_S]

Yes, current Asian-made boots are junk. No, I doubt you will be able to replace them without removing the rod ends. Some people have used boots from other cars recently. Chevy comes to mind although I can't remember off hand which model.

 

[JBarryW]

The tie-rod ends do have to come off. Wrap masking tape around the tie-rod itself, up snug against the tie-rod end, that way you know exactly how far to screw the end back on once you have the new boots installed. Of course, you could always do it the right way and count the number of turns...

 

[DrEntropy]

To painlessly remove and reinstall tie-rods for a steering boot R&R:

With a draftsman's compass set to 6" with an accurate scale (not a "ruler"), set one tip in the center of the rod end ( I prefer the center of the bolt on the underside) and scribe a line on the rod. Unscrew the rod from the end, R&R the boot, screw the rod back into the end and match the distance with the compass. Quick & Dirty. And ~accurate~.

 

[fogliner]

That lil tip is goin in my book Doc. Great, cheap and accurate, Combine that with some John Twist technique ..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQ428hwJn38

and it should be a 2 guy , 10 minute a side job,Mabey 15 if you video it for us..The hoist helps a lot though.
Have fun

 

[DrEntropy]

I've had "arguments" with some tie rods lasting hours, mostly due to rust issues. It ~should~ only take about ten minutes. :smirk:

AntiSieze is your friend, BTW. Reassemble with some on those threads. :wink:

 

[jlaird]

I used red lock tight. I figured the next guy needed a chalange. LOL. If these don't last my lifetime, well they best.