What's it called and how critical is it
 

Hi guys

Please see attached pic. While checking under car I noticed this bushing is bent and compressed. Seems like a hard plastic. Is it just to keep crap out or does it have a more meaningful purpose? Also if I need to replace - whats it called?

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

It keeps the grease in also.
Replace it. It's usually rubber, but now there's better material.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxDWFntAdeA

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

Thanks - what's it called so I can order it

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

If I'm looking at what your looking at it is a dust cover meant to keep out abrasive grit. Frequent lube will also drive out moisture and dirt. The time for replacement is when the sockets get sloppy loose. If you can grasp the rod and create movement at the link, it's time to get the tools out.

How does the steering handle? If driving is busy busy keeping a straight line, you way want to refresh all of it. If there is no slop in the link and driving is easy, then Happy Motoring!

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

Ok thanks car drives straight and handles easily at all speeds. I'll see if I have any movement at the rod. If not I'll add some grease and continue to enjoy!

19fordy just saw video thanks it was excellent!

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

It is not easy to remove tie rod ends and they can sometimes be damaged in the process. I would wait until it needs to be taken apart for some other reason. Tie rod end dust boot.

There are different styles, but here are some: http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/se...ger&vi=1362765

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

It's called Tie rod end Dust Boot.
There are many styles so make sure you get the correct one.

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

Think this is it:
Drag Link/Tie Rod Seals; fits 1935-56

https://www.bobdrake.com/FordItem.aspx?Item=48-3332

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

I got one of these at Harbor Freight ($23) and it worked well to separate the tie rod end (ball joint) so you can slide the new boot on. Sometimes the local auto supply will have a loaner you can rent.

Take the nut loose about 1/8 inch and then use the separator to pop the tapered stud loose from the steering arm. Unscrew the nut the rest of the way and the ball joint will drop down. Remove what's left of the old boot, wipe it all clean and slide the new boot over the ball joint stud.

Tighten the nut firmly and line up the cotter pin holes and insert new cotter pin. Use a 3/32 cotter pin. Grease the ball joint to finish the project.

BTW, while you're under there, make sure the ring clamp is tight that locks the ball joint to the tie rod. If it is loose you possibly have worn threads inside the tie rod.

Sorry if this is too detailed, but hope it helps.

John

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

John

Never too detailed. Thanks for the advise and the suggested tool. It's on my list:)

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

My local Napa has the dust boots in blister packs on the shelf, $6-8 each. When picking the hole size remember it is a tapered shaft.

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

The original dust shields were two piece. The first is a thin metal concave washer to fit over the end of the tie rod and the second is a rubber gasket very much like a thin slice of a garden hose.

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

8BA valve seals are about the same size .

Re: What's it called and how critical is it
 

I replaced the seal. Is there a torque # for nut? Or tighten and put cotter pin back in?