vaughnc

Since Mazda doesn't sell balljoint boots for the lateral links/tirerods (see diagram below), I'm going with Engergy Suspension's polyurethane tirerod boots instead. You can see below there is a BIG difference in design. Mazda lists how to replace them with OEM ones, but then doesn't supply a part number in the diagram below.... I don't get it

Unlike the stock boots, these polyurethane ones don't have any metal sleeves built in to secure them to the ball joint housing. I'm assuming they stay in place by the ball joint bolt and subframe body "clamping" them in place. Otherwise the boot will be loose and dirt will get into the ball joint and ruin it.

Note to remove the lateral links from the subframe (see diagram below), forget what the book says about wacking them with a metal bar & hammer. Just have a machine shop press them out for you. No amount of PB blaster penetrating oil, heat, or wacking will get them loose and you'll just mushroom the balljoint's head & ruin it. This is PROBABLY why Mazda doesn't sell the boot and you have to buy $225 worth of lateral links that come with new boots already installed.

I think that sucks and went aftermarket instead.

Rpeck

Your a freak Looks like a good plan though.

dvls-7

The reason you can't get it seperately is because the dealer sells it as one thing. I did this also on my car, but i ended up getting new ball joints and ends and putting the energy ones over it. If memory is correct i think thats what is supposed to be done. Or i could have done it wrong myself....either way doing all that stuff is a pain in the ***.....have you gotten to the control arm bushings yet? if not, to get those off you need a drill with the cutting wheel attachment or the air tool. Good luck with it.