i need to change the steering (bellows) boot on the drivers side. it's tore up and needs to be fixed. the part isn't to expensive, but i'm not sure if i should tackle it or not.

has anybody done this? if so, can you walk me through how to change this boot?

thanks.

 

The inner tie rod boot? Not very hard, unless your inner tie rod and outer are seized together (mine were, but my car is a bit of a problem child).

Loosen lug nuts. Put the front end on jackstands. Take off the wheel. Disconnect the tie rod from the steering knuckle (I recommend the jaw puller tool if you're going to reuse it, should have it in most good auto stores). Put a wrench on the inner tie rod, loosen the jam nut and remove the outer tie rod (remember the number of turns or measure the length so you can put it back the same way). Remove clamps and pull off the boot (inner clamp is not reusable). Reassemble.

If your tie rods are worn this is the time to change them. Also a good time to check ball joints.

 

everything is good, just the boot is torn. it's the long boot that towards the middle of the car. i think that's called the tie rod boot.

what is a "jaw puller" tool?

 

If its the bellows boot off the rack and pinion, where the tie rod comes out to the steering knuckle we're talking the same thing.

Like this:

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/cat...oductId=555631

You can also use a pickle fork tool, but you'll probably rip the boot up.

You can rent a tool, or there's the philosophy of "every store that has a return policy has a rental policy." (As long as you keep it in good condition).

 

yes, that's the correct boot.

i've never seen one of those tools before. can you explain what it does and why i'll need one?

obviously, i've never done this before. i ordered the boot today ($24.99) and i'm going to try and tackle this job myself, but i'd like to now exactly what i'm getting into....

 

Google is your friend. Watch these.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYIDzXxeNwk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MJOt...eature=related