I am getting a intermintant front end wobble so i Think it is time to replace the tie rod ends. I am confused if I can just install new ends in the existing bar or do I need to buy a whole new bar with new ends.

 

I did ends only and bought greasable ends.

 

Greasable is the way to go. If you off road at all I highly reccomend the terrafirma hd track rod and tie rod set. I have a set on my rangie and on my disco. Much stronger than original.

 

British 4x4 has a reinforced drag link and track arm, plus 4 OEM tie rod ends for $170. I'm replacing my TREs, and for 4 OEMs, it's about $150, so for an extra $20, you can get upgraded arms.

 

To check your TREs, lift the vehicle, grab the wheel real tight, and try to rock it back and forth laterally and horizontally. If there is any play, its time to replace. If not, then the TREs are still good. Sometimes the play is hard to notice, takes practice to determine if the wheel is moving or not.

 

Ha - the Death Wobble was all the practice I needed, the pucker factor increase pushed that job too the top of the to-do list.....

 

Hahaha. Indeed. Too many car guys do not have a sense of humor about their cars. I'm glad we do.

 

That was the set I was looking at. Basically the same price as buying all the individual tie rod ends.

Anything special with the install? I looked in the rave and it looks like I just remove the nut holding the TRE in and tap it out. Then slip the new on it. Almost seems too simple. Am I missing something?

Very true. I tried and it is hard to isolate the movement. I figured it can't hurt to replace them and I think it will solve my 'shimmy' in the wheel.

 

Its just as easy as u said. Use the string method to give itself an alignment until u have funds to get a good laser alignment.

 

Thats probably your best bet. I'm a firm believer in (1) if it ain't broke, don't fix it, and (2) don't throw parts at your car hoping to fix it. The exception to these rules being the front end. If you think your TREs are going, or your hub bearings, just replace them. It can't hurt, and it's always better than a catastrophic failure on the highway at 70mph. Plus, the peace of mind is priceless.

TRE's are fairly easy to replace, they basically screw into the track rod and drag link, then you clamp them down. The RAVE directions are actually pretty good. Let us know what type you go with, and where did you find the terrafirma track rod and drag link? I was going to go with the British 4x4 ones, but I'll look into the terrafirma ones now.

Also, I have heard, but have no first-hand knowledge of it, that OEM TRE's are the best to use on our trucks. I have never used a greasable TRE, and would be concerned about snapping off the zerk when wheeling. Would someone who has used greasable TREs weigh in, and where can I find greasable TREs? I am replacing mine next weekend, and would like to order them this week.