As it says I ripped the tie rod boots with the pickle fork when separating the joint. I saw previous posts about buying just the boot. Does anyone know where exactly? I have had no luck searching for replacement boots. I hope I don't have to replace each tie rod end.
Also, I am terribly afraid of ripping the lower ball joint boot. Is the best way really to just hit the knuckle with a hammer, or did anyone use one of those tools that look like a c-clamp with attachments. I have had difficulty finding them. Thanks for any info.


"If you aren't shifting, then you certainly aren't driving!"

On the boot: You're screwed as far as I know, you'll have to get a whole new rod end.

On the ball joint: Use a 2' or longer crowbar placed between the knuckle and control arm. OR use a hammer on the control arm (hit it down). Don't beat on the knuckle (upward), that will not work.

You should have lifted the boot a little and put the pickle fork between the metal washer under the boot and the knuckle.

I made the same mistake. Tough lesson to learn.

Prothane makes replacement boots. Measure your boot and find the coresponding one on their website.

Omg, hit the knuckle with a hammer. This will break the tapered seat of the tie rod or ball joint loose.