Outer tie rod dust / grease boot replacement

[HenryJ]

I had one outer tie-rod boot that split. I thought about running it until it went bad and then replacing it, but that is the lazy way out.

Energy Suspension has polyurethane boots. Autozone carries them. Online they show $3.99. At the store $4.99. Bring the ad and they will match the price. Part numbers: 9.13101R (red) or G (Black graphite) They also show Octagonal boots: 9.13102 R / G

Replacing them can seem daunting, but it really is easy.

Take the wheel off. Turn the steering wheel to the side you are working on. Remove the cotter key and loosen the nut. Don't remove it, but run it almost off. It needs to be there to protect the threads. Use a bottle jack to apply a little upward pressure. Then use two BFH. One to support the side of the spindle arm and the other to hit the opposite side. A few good licks and the tie rod will pop loose. Use a screw driver and tap the old boot off. Wipe the tie rod clean and pump grease through until it comes clean. Wipe all the off and install the new boot. Once it is all tightened back in place , grease it until the grease purges from the top. Put the tire back on and repeat for the other side.

I don't have a good opinion on the quality or lifespan. The price is right when compared to spending $56-up on a tie rod end. protect what you have.