Passenger side tie rod?

[DTrem08]

Hi I'm still relatively new to the Maxima world. Theres a smaller boot on what I believe is the tie rod (not the boot on the axle, the one smaller and closer to the passenger area) that tore on my 99 max. I'm wondering what I'm looking at for a replacement. Also, I heard a clacking noise that is why I got out and found the boot ripped. It's not consistant but does kind of worry me.

Questions:
1- What are my options for fixing the boot/tie rod?
2- Is the clacking sound related to that joint not having grease or what are some other possibilities.

[tHe iLleSt RiCe]

depending on how old that boot has been ripped, the grease might all be gone and the tie rod might have excessive play providing you with sloppy suspension. An outer tie rod is not that expensive at the auto parts store.

[DTrem08]

so i could but the outter tie rod and a new boot, put the old tie rod on and then put the new boot on?

i wasnt sure if it was all one peice or not

[pmohr]

Originally Posted by DTrem08

so i could but the outter tie rod and a new boot, put the old tie rod on and then put the new boot on?

i wasnt sure if it was all one peice or not

The outer tie rod has an integrated ball joint, which is likely the boot you're talking about.

[KRRZ350]

I have a weird feeling he's talking about the inner one, just 'cause he compared it to the axle boot and said it's closer to the compartment.

Does the boot you speak of have bellows? Looks like a round accordian?

[DTrem08]

Yes, it does KRRZ350

[webjohn]

does the "clacking" sound happen when your turning, if so its probably the real axle.

and the one your talking about is the rack and pinion boot. to change that boot i believe that all you have to remove is the outer tie rod. and then loosen the clamps on the boot and slide it out(the boot is on the rack and pinion not on the outer tie rod). someone please correct me if im wrong.