RockAuto question

[theslimjim32]

I'm going to be R&R my lower ball joints (yes OEM) and figure that while I'm down there, I should change my inner and outer tie rods.

My question is this, on RockAuto website the tie rods are broken down in two categories; Economy and Standard Replacement. What is the difference? I read their FAQ, and it said that economy was built TO OEM standard but it didn't say anything about The Standard section.

Thanks in advance

 

[LittleCaesar]

I would at least do the outer TR with OEM parts. You won't be saving that much $$ by using non OEM parts.

For the inners, OEM replacements are costly. Most people have used NAPA stamped 555 for their inner tie rod replacement. My buddy used Beck Arnley for five years before selling his rig with them still on there.

 

[badattitude]

Auto parts stores say "like OEM" but they are not even close to OEM Toyota quality. The standard parts will be better than economy. I was not so fast to replace my tie rods when I did lower ball joints. At 140,000 miles my upper ball joints and tie rods were still good. Be sure you don't replace good original Toyota parts with inferior new parts. If it ain't broke don't fix it applies here. If the rubber grease sack is in tact and your steering feels fine the tie rods are ok.