Pictures does this bushing look bad?

Erik the Red · #1 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 12:34 PM

Hi all,

I just had a new set of Michelins installed and a wheel alignment performed, but I'm still experiencing some vibration. I'll be going in again today for a wheel rebalance but I'm concerned my problem may lie with a suspension component. When I was looking underneath I noticed that my right side steering bushing looked very greasy and seemed cocked up in contrast to the left side bushing. I can rotate both shafts with some effort (the right with a little less effort). I've posted a picture of the bushings and I was hoping someone could tell me if the right side bushing might appear as if it could be contributing to my road vibration. The left is essentially as I found it...the right had a fair amount of grease on it that I wiped away.

Thanks.
Erik

81toypu · #2 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 03:14 PM

well thats just a boot for the grease. but you may need to get a new tie-rod end if that one is shot. the shouldn't be any play in it with the vehicle jacked up and you push and pull on the tire.

Erik the Red · #3 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 03:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 81toypu

well thats just a boot for the grease. but you may need to get a new tie-rod end if that one is shot. the shouldn't be any play in it with the vehicle jacked up and you push and pull on the tire.

That's what surprised me when I inspected it. I could see into what I presume to be the grease cavity. I'll lift the truck up and see if I notice any play at the ends of the shafts. I don't hear any popping or clunking while driving but the steering wheel shimmies quite a bit, which is what made me think that the bushing was kaput.

Imdone · #4 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 07:55 PM

Hey, don't get a set from the dealer. I have a set for an 00 which is the same as yours. They are brand new OEM in the package tie rods. Let me know if they are damaged we can get something worked out to get you a new pair!!! I don't have my 00 any more so I have absolutely no use for them.

mike202 · #5 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 10:49 PM

This is not a bushing per se, but an outer tie rod end which is a ball & socket joint. As mentioned, there should not be any lateral play in the joint. If the grease boot is torn, then you should replace the end, since there is not way to add grease.

Blackhawkxx · #6 (**permalink**) 06-28-2008, 11:31 PM

You may also check when you under there, the steering rack bushing. I had my girl friend turn the wheel when I was under. I found all the play in the wheel was from those bushings.

BAD BONEZ BJ · #7 (**permalink**) 06-29-2008, 01:35 PM

That right ball joint bushing bolt looks bent to me. I'd change it out if it were mine. JMHO

BJ

Sanosuke · #8 (**permalink**) 06-29-2008, 03:50 PM

Also, looking real close at that bushing, you can make out what seems to be metal shavings under that cap!

Sanosuke!

Erik the Red · #9 (**permalink**) 06-30-2008, 02:39 PM

Thanks guys...I appreciate the help. It sounds like I need a new tie rod end or at least a good inspection of its condition.

Imdone · #10 (**permalink**) 06-30-2008, 10:54 PM

I lied, I have a set of upper ball joints left, not tie rods. I know I used to have a set but I must have installed them on my 00 when I had it. Sorry about that. They are likely around $45.00 each from the dealership