Replace the tie rod end boots or the whole thing?

[jezebel]

I had that "death wobble" in the front end also and went straight to the tie rod ends and both my boots are torn open, so no grease. I was told (here we go right!) that just replacing the boots and greasing it would fix it, vice replacing the entire tie rod end. Obviously it would be cheaper, but not sure if it will fix the problem.
Can someone with more knowledge give me a sanity check?
Thanks

 

[cwwfj60]

I would replace the whole tie rod end, they probably need it anyways. Is your truck lifted? death wobble from tie rod ends seems severe, I would think your tie rod ends would have to be ready to fall apart for you to get a bad wobble. maybe you have some possible caster problems, or you steering box has gotten worn out...just a few ideas, good luck

 

[torfab]

Replace the whole thing, get it out of the way

 

[4wdx4]

If the tie rod ends are worn enough to give you a death wobble then they need to be replaced. Have you checked the other suspension componenets for play?

 

[jezebel]

Havent checked any other components yet. Just saw the tie rod end boots were torn and stopped there. It was a fairly quick happening, went about a week without driving it and then discovered this wobble that nearly ripped the wheel out of my hand. Thought the wheels were coming off!
I will just do the replace of the tie rod ends. Seems pretty straight forward as long as you rent a puller from the parts store.
Any tips on the repair are more than welcome!

 

[cwwfj60]

pulled the wheel out of your hand? are your wheels and tires ok? are you running a spacer for your front wheels? if so i would jack your front end up and retorque your lugs.

 

[torfab]

Tre puller is only 15$ at napa. I would check the wheels and tires like cww sugested. Perhaps your alignment is out

 

[orangefj45]

chances are the TREs are worn to the point where they should be replaced. especially if they've been run "dry". the kits are not that expensive.

hth

georg @ valley hybrids