Replacing tie rod ends in 2001 Neon. Big job ?

I have a 2001 Dodge Neon with about 87K on the clock. There seems to be
about 1/4" of play in the tie rod ends on both sides which result in a lot
of clunking and wheel noise. I can perform basic maintenance, such as
replacing brake pads, and am considering replacing them myself but don't
know how big a job it is. I am not sure whether both the inner and outer
parts on each side need replaced, but I'm assuming they do. I realize that I
won't be able to perfectly align the wheels, but does anyone know if this is
a job for an amateur, or should I bite the bullet and pay a mechanic?

 

Well you should be able to tell if it is just the outers by looking at it
when you check it. If it is just the outers, Go For it!! then have yhe
alignment reset as soon as you are done[/QUOTE]

 

This is probably a stupid question... but how can I tell if it's just an
outer? The inner moves within the outer, but the nut on the underside of the
outer (holding the inner?) is solid.

 

well if you can see the tie rod shaft moving as you barely move the wheel
with your hand you would be able to tell. if there is play and the shaft
does not move then you would see only the tie rod move

Glenn Beasley
Chrysler Tech

 

I know there is play - I just don't know where the play is. If I move the
wheel with my hand, the outer tie rod end moves, but the inner tie rod end
does not, nor does the nut/bolt that connects the inner tie rod end to the
outer.

 

--

Then it is just the outer tie rod that is worn

 

Thanks for your help. I replaced the outer tie rod ends and it was quite an
easy job. I even managed to get the alignment pretty close... according to
my mechanic. I also had to replace both front tires because they had got
beaten up quite a bit. It's running very smooth now.

 

--

Good for you!! I take it the alignment was done afterwards? is that what the
mechanic meant by getting it close?

Glenn Beasley
Chrysler Tech

 

When I replaced the tie rod ends I made an effort to ensure I maintained the
same alignment as before. I then took the car to be have the alignment
checked, and to check out a periodic scrubbing noise coming from the front.
The mechanic claimed that the alignment looked good but that the front tires
were out of round. I then took the car to a tire shop where they confirmed
that the tires were beat up (probably due to having two very slack tie
rods). I replaced the tires and all is well. I didn't get an alignment reset
so will keep a careful eye on the tires for any scrubbing, feathering, or
uneven wear. I suspect they will be ok though.

 

I would highly recommend the alignment. Incorrect Toe settings will wear out
a set of tires. just a thought