97 SE 5spd, 101k.

My steering used to hold a very tight line, and over the last 30k it's gotten progressively more loose. I had it realigned already at a trusted shop - no change.

1) What should I inspect, and what do I look for?

2) If it's the tie rods, what do I need to replace them? Is it DIY?

I miss the search tool. Can the mods enable it again, even if I'm only allowed to do 1/hour?

Thanks,

Dave

 

The alignment shop should have found the loose tie rod ends.

It's not worth it to do them yourself because the car has to be aligned when the new ends are installed. If they are indeed loose, just let a front end shop install then and align your car again.

Grab a front wheel and wiggle it back and forth. You'll feel the play if your ends are shot.

 

im having the same problems, im interested to know. What else could it be besides tie rods?

 

Thanks njmax.

Since I want my car to last another 100k and I like it tip-top, I was thinking of having them install new CV boots as well. Does this fit into the picture well? Any other stuff that's worth fixing while I/they are in there? Would all of this be easier if done during a clutch job (also coming up)?

Dave

 

Your Welcome!
Yes, especially the boots. The axels will be out of the car anyhow. You can probably have them rebooted by a local shop fairly cheap.