Steering Boot Twisted Fix? Replace?

[Mhayden37]

I was under my 4Runner today trying to find the source of the CLUNK when going slow over bumps. I think it's the inner CV axle on driver's side (a little more play than i'd expect) and my stabilizer bar bushings need replacement. However, when I was down there I noticed the boot over the tie rod and the steering rack is twisted. There are no tears and no signs of leaks. It appears that where it connects to the outer tie rod the clamp twisted about 1/3 the way around the tie rod itself. My guess is a strategically placed rock or piece of ice hit it. Anyways, any suggestions on what I should do? Leave it alone. Fix it? Replace the boot?

If I replace the boot:
I will have to take the tie rod off. Both outer tie rods look fine, but they do have 107K on them. I will also need an alignment if I replace the tie rods. My front shocks are still good, but I plan on replacing in the next year. If I replace those I assume I would need another alignment. I guess what I'm saying is if I replace the boot, I open a whole new can of worms that cost $$$$$. However, this is my daily driver and I plan on running it, well forever.

If I replace the boot should I also just go ahead and replace the tie rods? If so, auto parts store tie rods or OEM?

If I replace my front shocks/struts down the road will I need another alignment? I might do the bilstein's but only the .85 lift.
Thanks

 

[fdbyrne]

I would just twist it back straight. I was messing with mine yesterday. You can pull the outside clip off with a pair of pliers, twist the boot back in alignment, then put the clip back on.

If the outside clip on yours isn't the spring-loaded kind that can easily be taken on and off, you can actually twist the inboard side without removing the clamp. It just takes a little effort.

 

[Mhayden37]

Thanks! I'll give that a try.

 

[Mhayden37]

FYI: a shot of penetrating oil and I was able to twist the boot back. All good.