Greetings,

Got under '83 245DL w/mega miles today and was able to trace front end "clack"
to tie-rod ends. A year ago, I replaced the ball joints on both sides and left the tie-rod ends alone. No time, borrowed garage, etc. TRW ball joints weren't the easiest "install," either.

On previous '83 242DL, I replaced "all four corners" at the same time, meaning 2 ball joints and two tie rod ends. Seemed sensible, had the time, plus bicycle as back up vehicle to get parts.

I tossed the ball joints but saved the tie-rod ends as they didn't seem anywhere near as worn.

OK, now the questions:

1) The 242DL (assembled in Belgium) had a ZF power steering rack. The present 245DL (assembled in Sweden) has a Cam Gear p.s. rack I believe. Are tie-rod ends the same? Reusability=false economy here?

2) Protective boots are NOT ripped on the ones in there now but there is up and down "travel." Can I tighten the nut holding the tie-rod end ball stud to the steering arm to buy time/safety?

All you papas/grandpapas out there, advice if you've got time.

Regards from the USA's "North Coast."

--
Franck 83 245