steering grease boots

[69satellite400]

Are the grease boots on the steering replaceable. And if so how?
Or do you just leave it alone unless they are damaged?

 

[mrsnicks]

They should be standard screw in grease fittings. Probably don't need to be replaced, just clean all the gunk off so you can get new grease in.

 

[69satellite400]

Thanks mrsnicks!

 

[GearAddict]

I think Mrsnicks was refering to the grease fittings (zircs) and you are asking about the grease boots yes?... they are replacable, but unless they are split or destroyed, there is no need to replace. If you are having steering issues and are going to dissassemble the steering assy, then you may wish to replace. They are cheap and can be pressed on by hand with a little effort.

 

[69satellite400]

Yes i was talking about the boots not the zerks. I was thinking of changing them just because the engine is out of it and it would be easy.

 

[Propwash]

Easy enough..just need a pickle fork to pop the inner tie rods, idler & Pitman arm from the steering link and outer tie rods from the lower ball joint arms. Might be a good time to check the tie rods/idler arm/pitman/ball joints for slop or wear. Most auto parts stores sell universal or size specific boots. Good luck.

 

[Cornpatch MO]

Easy enough..just need a pickle fork to pop the inner tie rods, idler & Pitman arm from the steering link and outer tie rods from the lower ball joint arms. Might be a good time to check the tie rods/idler arm/pitman/ball joints for slop or wear. Most auto parts stores sell universal or size specific boots. Good luck.

I got universal boots from NAPA , thinking that they would be quality. About a year later, they split and my car was never out of the garage! GRRRRRR.........MO

 

[Propwash]

I got universal boots from NAPA , thinking that they would be quality. About a year later, they split and my car was never out of the garage! GRRRRRR.........MO

That would get me pretty torqued as well. I don't think making rubber boots would be considered rocket science. 30-40 years ago i'm sure you wouldn't have had that issue.

 

[nm9stheham]

Most replacement rubber boots are cheap....never had one that lasted long. Keep the originals clean, and maybe wipe some silicon spray on the outside every year; that will help keep the rubber soft and not dry out and crack.