i need tie rod ends and boots so the the guy who inspected my car. What brand should i get? Is it hard to replace these myself?

 

Tie rod ends are easy. Pull the wheel, remove the cotter pin and castle nut. I use a tie rod end puller (you can get one for about $7) to press out the tie rod from the steering knuckle. Loosen the jam nut on the tie rod and thread off the tie rod. Make sure you count the number of turns to thread off the tie rod, if you don't put the new one on with the same number of turns, you'll throw off your alignment.

I recommend Moog, you can get them through Summit. Be sure to grease the fitting before driving.

 

Energy Suspension has the boots for about 3-4 bux.. p/n 9.13101

 

is energy suspension the best?? And you don't need I tie rod puller just a big damn hammer. The vibrations of one good wack seperates them nicely.

 

I would highly recommend Moog suspension/steering components.

 

moog? I've never heard of moog. where can you find moog, and why is it so good?

 

As stated above, Summit carries Moog parts, so do a lot of automotive shops.

 

Check the sponsor decals on about any Nextel Cup race car/team and you will find Moog. Not that that makes them something great but they are a well know national manufacturer of suspension/steering components. They are owned by Federal Mogul.

 

Energy Suspension just sells dust covers, they don't sell ball joints or tie rod ends. Yes a big hammer will work...$7 for the right tool is a bargain.

 

I see on my car that the original tie rod ends are not greaseable since there are no zerk fittings. Why is this?

 

Many manufacturers went to a sealed unit in the 90's. You could install the Zerk fittings if you really wanted to, but apparently GM thinks they are uncessary. Notice that they also went to a sealed hub on the front wheel bearing assembly. I guess this is an improvement but I kinda like lubing the chassis.