pointvirus

It's uh, not supposed to look like that is it? What exactly is (or was) that bushing called? I can't seem to find the correct part name to look up a polyurethane replacement.

goldmecham

iTrader: (1)

tie rod boot

samson_420

iTrader: (1)

It is a part of the tie rod end. If you car feels a bit loose, replace them.

They are only about 50 Bucks and will make a hell of a difference, but you will need an alignment after wards.

pointvirus

It does feel a little loose. Does it look like I need to replace the ends? or just the boot?

KENS_SS_4

It is an outer tie rod, part of the steering.
There is no "bushing".
There is a lubricated metal ball and socket protected from dirt and water by a rubber boot.

ae13291

iTrader: (8)

when mine had a hole or rip, i got a grease gun and filled it to the top with alot of grease then i used a special tape that sticks to itsself to seal it back up like new

Jolly

Is there a lot of play in the steering wheel? Tie rod goes bad and there should be a lot of play back and forth without the wheel moving.

Cheap part and piece of mind fix.

pointvirus

Thanks for the replies guys.

There's a little bit of play on the steering wheel. I can wiggle the steering wheel back and forth about an 1/2 an inch and it won't do a thing before the wheels start turning. I'll replace both outer tie rod ends, and then get an alignment at a shop.

I've been reading up on steering system and I think i'll flush the fluid while I'm at it.

I also seem to be having a "popping" sound from my front right wheel when I make wide left turns. I'll do the ball joint test and see if I need to replace those as well. From what I've read, there seems to be a lot more work/tools involved with replacing those.