Torn Center Link Boot Repair Options?

[mbclay21]

Hello gents,

I'm trying to get my steering gear out for a rebuild and made the mistake of using a fork to separate the pitman arm from the center/drag link ball joint. I failed at separating the pitman arm from the drag link but did manage to tear the boot on the ball joint of the center link.

Can I buy a new boot or do I have to buy the whole center link/ball joint/boot assembly?

How long can I drive with this boot torn?

Thanks for any help!

 

[Oscar Witte]

Depending on the boot type they sell them at trail gear. You can drive with it torn, you just risk getting dirt/water in there.

 

[mbclay21]

Thanks, Oscar.

I was able to find a tie rod boot for $7 at Trail Gear. Tie Rod Ends - Trail Gear

Do you know if the center link boot and tie rod end boots are interchangeable?

 

[Oscar Witte]

Thanks, Oscar.

I was able to find a tie rod boot for $7 at Trail Gear. Tie Rod Ends - Trail Gear

Do you know if the center link boot and tie rod end boots are interchangeable?

Ive used one for this purpose before. Just make sure your end has a boot held on the same way as trail gear's. Aka held on with the wire clip