I need to replace my Dust Boots on my lateral links, the FSM says I can do it, but I don't see a part number anywhere for a dust boot, just the lateral link. So my question is, has anyone ever replaced the dust boot cover? Can I use a Tie Rod End Boot cover (I got 2 with my new urethane suspension kit and looks like it would fit) I just wanna know if anyone has ever done this. Thank you

 

If the tie rod bootsboots are the same diameter, top and bottom, I'd think you could swap them as long as they fit on securely.
Call your local Mazda Dealer and they can order the boots for you if you cannot swap them.

The best alternative would be to buy my brand new oem lateral links below what you could get the anywhere else. PM me if interested.

 

How much for yours, and do you think that a parts man at mazda is REALLY gonna know what the hell I am saying when I talk to him about it. Its not something in the parts manual so they will be like... duh what do you mean...

 

^ The parts guy at the dealer probably WON'T know what you're talking about if you refer to the part as a "lateral link," which is generally used for parts if the rear suspension. But if you ask for "tie rod end" dust boots, he should know it right away.

 

Just get some polyurethane ones and be done with it. Repace/repack the greese.

I forget offhand if there are boots on the subframe side. If so you'll need to drop the subframe and potentially have the lateral links pressed out if you're not able to do it. Give it a try first, remember PB-Blaster penetrating oil is your friend. If BP-Blaster doesn't work next put the nut back on and lightly tap the lateral link stud/bolt. The subframe needs to be square on teh ground and you need to squarely hit the nut, otherwise the force of your blow will have no impact (hitting it harder will muschroom/warp the nut). If that doesn't work heat it up with a MAPP gas torch and lightly tap. If all that fails have a machine shop press it out.