[lomodyj]

The front end of LoModYJ is getting a bit loose. Looks like the tie rod ends and possibly the ball joints could use some freshening. Seems the rags carry full replacement ends and not just the bushings...

1) Is it that much easier to replace the whole end? (why not just the bushings?)

2) Are the replacements in 4Wheel Parts/Q-tech/JC Witless all pretty much the same quality? Are these the ones to use or is there a better replacement?

3) I have this memory of replacement bushings in poly instead of rubber (can't find them right now) Is poly better in this instance or best to stay with rubber?

 

[WILL]

What bushing are you talking about? There are no replaceable bushings in ball joints and tie rod ends. Are you thinking of spring bushings or the poly dust boots for tie rod ends?

 

[CJ7Taz]

I think what you are seeing as the bushings are the boot to keep the grease in and the dirt out. I think that you will also only be able to replace 3 of the tie rod ends, the drag link comes with the end on it as a unit. Some drag links are sold end to end, so you need to know what you are buying.

The ball joints have bushings on the uppers but they are steel and screw in..

 

[lomodyj]

specificaly:
1, 2, 3, 4, 9, and 10 from below:

And this is what I was thinking of as poly bushings:
poly replacement bushings at 4wd.com

 

[CJ7Taz]

Items 1 & 3 are ball joints that hold the knuckle to the axle ends. Items 3, 9 & 10 are tie rod ends. Item 4 is the drag link. The items in the link specifically say “Prothane Tie Rod End Boots”, not bushings. they are just a different boot to replace the rubber ones that come with items 3, 4, 9 &10.

 

[lomodyj]

let me try this again:

The front end of LoModYJ is getting a bit loose. Looks like the tie rod ends and possibly the ball joints could use some freshening.

1) Is it easier to replace the whole end? (why not just the boots ? Or does the whole end wear out, not just the boots ?)

2) Are the replacements in 4Wheel Parts/Q-tech/JC Witless all pretty much the same quality? Are these the ones to use or is there a better replacement?

3) I have seen boots in poly instead of rubber. Is poly better in this instance or best to stay with rubber?

 

[1437]

In reply to:

let me try this again:

The front end of LoModYJ is getting a bit loose. Looks like the tie rod ends and possibly the ball joints could use some freshening.

1) Is it easier to replace the whole end? (why not just the boots ? Or does the whole end wear out, not just the boots ?)

2) Are the replacements in 4Wheel Parts/Q-tech/JC Witless all pretty much the same quality? Are these the ones to use or is there a better replacement?

3) I have seen boots in poly instead of rubber. Is poly better in this instance or best to stay with rubber?

[/ QUOTE ]

1. replace the whole tie-rod end....its the ball that is wearing out not the boot/cover that is causeing the sloppy feel......

2. just go to NAPA and get some new T/E's

3. the poly ones are supposed to stand up to the elemants and wheeling better, but if you just grease the T/E's after each wheeling trip then you will flush out any dirt/crud that has gotten in them....

is this what you were asking?????

later
john

 

[lomodyj]

yes, thank you!

 

[Caver Dave]

But he forgot to mention his Ultra-anal approach that also involves 8 cans of brakeclean, swabbing the underside of the boots with a Q-tip, and a white glove that looks REALLY "Michael Jackson-ish"...

 

[Grapehead]

hahahahah.

autozone rents the ball joint press. makes it easier.
just remember to get it aligned afterwards.

holla if you need a hand.

 

[OlllllllOCJ]

"You will never totally train a jeep to be leak free. It is there natural instinct to mark their territory." -Aaron871

Damn I don't really like cats

BTW..... Moog makes all of those steering parts and they can be found at many differnt parts stores.

The quality seems better compaired to the generic.

I get mine at Speedway Auto Parts in Indiana.

Have fun, they don't come apart without a fight.

 

[171]

Speaking of Tie Rod ends.
.Anyone read the article about flipping the tie rod ends to the top of the steering arm for CJ's ? IN 4 wheel drive and sport utility November 2002 ???...Shows how far I am behind in my reading...LOL.. The kit includes a reamer and some bushings avalible from www.ok4wd.com

Man that is freaky that is the only page in the magazine marked November 2002 it is actually 2003 . Anyone that has the magazine around check it out page 22 says november 2002

OH well , I digress....any opinions on this? is it worth the effort to rais the steering stuff 1 or 2 inches?

 

[jdoggmoney]

If you go with the poly bushungs and don't use special grease, they will deteriorate. Also most of the chain stores offer some of these type parts with a lifetime replacement warranty. Local is better, especially if a warranty is involved.