80 series tie rod ends

[GeoRoss]

A quick question about tie rod ends on the 80. My ends look like s*** and have some play. I was thinking about replacing them at the wrench party next week.

Are there any benefits from staying with OEM or upgrading to the heavy duty types that M-a-F or Slee sell?

I am not planning on replacing the relay rod.

 

[Tools R Us]

If Dan's price is close, I would buy factory. There is nothing "trick" about the aftermarket ones, last time I checked BAP carried the same brand for a better price.

 

[GeoRoss]

If Dan's price is close, I would buy factory. There is nothing "trick" about the aftermarket ones, last time I checked BAP carried the same brand for a better price.

Thanks for the info. I suspected that the bigger ones were more than I needed.

 

[Tools R Us]

Are you sure your have play, I have never seen a loose one on an 80? They are pretty beefy stock, the aftermarket ones that I have seen are just that, stock aftermarket replacements, no bigger than stock. Unless your talking about replacing the rods?

 

[GeoRoss]

Are you sure your have play, I have never seen a loose one on an 80? They are pretty beefy stock, the aftermarket ones that I have seen are just that, stock aftermarket replacements, no bigger than stock. Unless your talking about replacing the rods?

When I have someone turn the wheel they feel wobbly/jerky and not smooth with play. I was just going to replace the ends. The dust boots are shot also with gray grease oozing out as well.

I wasn't planning on replacing the rods at the present time. If I start banging them and bending them I will.