tie rod boot clamps

I'll be doing both L and R inner and outer tie rods and it just occurred to me that I'l likely need to replace the tie rod boot clamps. Are they available separately or with the boot? I haven't started this job yet just trying to get all the parts needed. (I already have both inner/outer tie rods).

Any thougths, tips appreciated.

Piper

In mine the inner clamp was a nylon zip tie and the outer was a metal clamp... or maybe opposite. I was able to re-use the metal one but put a new zip tie on the inner.

There is a metal tube connecting the two boots to equalize pressure. It will fall out and is a PITA to get back in. When you pull one boot try like hell to keep it from falling out of the other.

All you need are zip ties. just use a pair of pliers to tighten it.

All you need are zip ties. just use a pair of pliers to tighten it.
Yes, Rock Auto carry aftermaket boots ( Moog) and they come with 2 zip ties.

thanks guys, I kinda thought the zip ties'd work well. I too have heard about letting the connecting tube come out. I'll do my best to keep it together.

Piper

I am sure you can use a bigger hose clamp if you would like

I need to replace the inner tierods on my 2002 Windstar. How difficult of a job is that?
Without sounding like a complete idiot, I have a degree in problem solving with practicle application. In other words, if given enough pictures, information and the right tools I can fix most anything.
I was wondering if this is something your average Joe can do or does it require significant auto mechanic experience with a garage full of the right tools?

Piper, your boots won't likely need replacing. I don't know why everybody fusses so much about the breather tube that goes between the two boots. I don't think I'm that good or lucky either. I mostly forget to put it back before putting the band back on the boot.

Freezer65, rather than rehash the whole procedure here, I recommend searching from the Windstar main page search for this. I believe Northern Piper actually started a thread on it but I don't remember it by name. Use the advanced search cross referencing subject and name. My name is in that thread by as a poster only.

If you have done outer tie rods before, then you probably could do the inners, but they require much more patience. The problem is borrowing the tool to remove it. The parts stores have them, but they don't always fit. I've always found a wrench large enough to take it loose, often it's an adjustable. You will have to position the rack all the way out on right side and part way on the left if you use a wrench.

check out this link.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=902084&highlight=my+scary+experience