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The car has 167K miles on it. I purchased it about 25K ago. I believe the struts were replaced by the PO about 2 years ago at about 130K. Last August, I had the left inner tie rod end replaced including alignment. That cost $ 178.
Unfortunately, my left outer tie rod end now needs to be replaced. I just don't want to take it back every 6 months for the next item in need of repair. I'd like to assume that the whole steering system is original and bushings and components subject to wear should now be replaced. This will also give me some piece of mind and eliminate the clunking over bumps.
I think I may be ready for this. However, as I said, I would just like to go through the whole steering system, but never having done it, it seems daunting. After studying the Bentley's I've come up with this:
1. R inner tie rod end, since the L was already replaced last August.
2. R and L outer tie rods
3. Sway bar bushings
4. L + R Control Arm front bushing
5. L + R Control Arm rear bushing
6. Sway bar link looks like it's got an upper and lower rubber bushings that are cracked and old.
7. Ball joint bolts are indicated for replacement by Bentley's ....right? Same for strut anchor bolts......right?
8. Inner tie rod end boots? They appear OK but are likely original.
Am I missing anything?
Does any of the OEM parts suppliers have a kit that they've put together for something like this?
I also noticed in the Bentley's they show several control arm bushing tools. Can I fashion my own? I have a large puller that I think I can make work for the tie rod ends. I also have a bench vise that I think is suitable for pressing the control arm bushings.
After all this discussion, I suppose I could just replace the tie rod ends, since that is all that seems to require immediate attention, then get an alignment.
Looking for input from the good folks on the BB. BTW, I sprayed the crap out of every steering assembly nut and bolt tonite in youthful anticipation.
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90 244 216K, 93 244 167K, 93 244 109K, 99 V-70 73K
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