ok so i need some assistance. im still learning a lot so pardon my noobness.

the boot around my tie rods are ripped... do i need to change the whole tie rod set up or can i just replace the boot? what specific parts do i need to replace? also after fixing this will i have to get it aligned again?

pics..

 

All you need to replace is the tie rod end, it unscrews from the rod. I've never seen a boot sold by itself but that's not to say it isn't as I've never looked. You can mark the threads with paint before taking the old rod end off so when you put a new rod end on it will be threaded to where the old one was, but I would still spend the money to get an alignment.

 

thanks! OEM or aftermarket? anyone know how much the oem one should cost? gotta call ray tomorrow.....

 

I would just go with OEM. Mazdatrix lists the outer tie rod end at 60.00 each. I would think Ray could give you a better price.

 

If the tie-rod is otherwise tight and in good shape, I think you can get just the boot. At least I thought I saw just the boost listed at MAZDAMOTORSPORTS. In that case you shouldn't need an alignment.
If you end up replacing the tie-rod, I count threads or put tape at the base of the tie-rod on the shaft for reference before removing it. Then align after replacement.

 

Check the rack boots while you have the tie rod ends off. You won't get a better chance to change them.

 

I wouldn't recommend using the old tie rod ends when the boot is ripped, once it's ripped all the foreign substance gets in there. There is a reason why those are covered in rubber boots

 

whats the rack boot? the lone crimply plastic/rubber at each end of the steering rack?

yeah makes sense.. im pretty sure i broke the boots when i was trying to pop the ball joint out... either way ill probably just get new ones to play it safe..

while im at it, anymore recomendations on things to change? 120k just swapped out all the bushings...... and swapping toe/traling arms and some pillow ***** in the future

 

yep.

 

good looks, they are in good condition holding up well

 

Like the others said, you can replace just the boot for the outer tie rod end but it's not a good idea IMO. Replace the tie rod end.

Since you'll need an alignment, I'd make sure both inner tie rods are nice and tight and there are no leaks coming from the rack boots. Note: if you need a new inner tie rod for any reason, make sure your replacement has the correct thread pitch. For some (idiotic) reason Mazda changed thread pitch sometime in 94. If you have a 94 or 95 PM me and I'll cut you a really good deal on one.

Also check the rack bushings, which are located where the rack is mounted to the subframe.

Dave

 

I would just one shot the pillow ball bushings while you are down there, as for the entire toe and trailing arms won't need to be replaced unless they are warped or bent IMO