installing tire rods, quick question Options

[nycchef]

now that the rains have stopped and the 4 inches of water have gone it is time to install the tie rods. am i supposed to use the brass washer or the old cover (it's red now) or both. without the red piece what is gonna hold the boot in place? the rubber ring on the shaft is too small.

[r_towle]

Try to remember that this is an upgrade from a stock part designed for another car. Its a simple solution to use the washer, and you must for safety.

Rich,
Turn the wheel to the middle and lube up the boot.
Put the top in the notch and use a pair of pliers to slowly work it around alternating from both sides of the rack...eventually it will go....yes it sucks.

To set your alignment well enough to get to a real shop and get a real alignment (which you must do) use a tape measure.

Loosen the lock nut on the tie rod, put the wheels on and set the car on the ground.
Put a 2*4 about 2-3 feet long (you need two that match) up against the tire on the outside so the board is standing on the thin edge and its touching the tire.

With the steering wheel set to the middle, measure from the front and rear of the board (it sticks out past the tire) and reach under with your hands and turn the tie rod to get about 1/8 inch toe in at the front of the tire...
That will get you to sears.
Jack up the car and tighten the lock nuts on the tie rod so you wont die.

Rich