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Had the T-Bird on the rack today getting new tires, so I had an opportunity to inpect the underside. This is a 2002 with 49,000 miles. The boots on the rear tie rods were totally shot! And the inner bushings on the lower controil arms were not looking very good. Looks like same rubber deterioration my XKR experienced on the front ball joint boots. Anyone had issues with theirs? Any repair experience out there?
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Re: Have you checked your rear tie rods lately
Is this the same thing?
http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...hlight=checked -
Re: Have you checked your rear tie rods lately
That is exactly what I am seeing on mine, but those are NOT ball joints! Those are tie rod ends. I know most of you on here are not hands-on wrenchers, so I guess I can let that slide! As one of the posters stated, if they are not worn out, why replace? No real reason to spend the money unless the parts are worn and causing issues with alignment, unless one is a perfectionist about their car.
I for one, am a RECOVERING perfectionist.
We should be aware of issues like those tie rod seals, and keep an eye on them. On the 1999 Cobra Mustangs (1st year that had IRS) they had a problem with the rear tie rods BREAKING OFF, and many of the cars were totalled as a result. So... Keep an eye on them! If one breaks or the tie rod gets dried out and snaps off, you will lose complete control of the car.Comment
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Re: Have you checked your rear tie rods lately
Does anyone have a Ford part number? Since the Tbirds shared a lot of the Lincoln LS components, it may be the same part.Comment
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Re: Have you checked your rear tie rods lately
I will have these rear tie rods checked on my 02 the next time my car goes in for an oil change.
I'll request that I be allowed to be present when the Ford mechanic does the inspection, David's pictures will help me know what damage to look for.
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Re: Have you checked your rear tie rods lately
While at it, check the LOWER BALL JOINTS on the front suspension. They are suspect, too.Comment
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