whumpwhumpwhump

Hi guys it's me again: Turns out the gas smell was a vapor return hose. Me fixied meself. I'm so proud (realize A. I'm a chick and B. The only car I can technically claim expert status in is an old '78 Caprice Coupe :naughty: )

But when I got her inspected, the mechanic said my right tie-rod is going. Now the car is doing the shake and roll when I drive (I need to get it fixed ASAP I'm thinkin - when I can find the time...or make the time)

Which means an alignment too, correct?

And - should I replace Mr. Left Tie-Rod too just to make sure?

At only 26,000 miles (sadly commute puts close to...400 to 500 miles a week :eek: :eek: :eek: - will move soon though) should that be a problem now? It's not like I drive it hard...no really - no hand-brake turns (okay only once) no twisties (not that fast anywho).

Transmission is doing great - thank god. Timing belt is fine, serpentine looks like it'll need replacing after winter.

Fuel injectors are clear. Spark plugs are clear. Fuel filter is clean, air filter needs to be changed.

This is a sweet little car and I hate to see "her" in an "owie" situation like a shot tie-rod end. :banghead:

Thanks

Red

Ford O.E. tie rod ends are crap, they use a preload packing that can be crushed by just one hit (pothole, curb, etc), leaving the ball stud loose in the socket. Shouldn't be bad that soon, but not unheard of. I change 'em both, then get an alignment, use MOOG parts, then you don't have to bother with it again for a long time.

Thanks Jeff -

Yeah, I remember hearing 'bout Ford's parts being crap for front ends - I mean, who would think of offering no grease fittings? DUH!!! :icon16:

But ain't that the norm for ALL new cars, regardless of Make or Model now? Stupid, just plain stupid!

Both and an alignment, hmm. That should cost me my paycheck easily- even IF I get it at my friend's garage. Wheeeeeeeeeee....

Better than eating dirt at 120 KMH though. MUCH better.

Now just to get new tires after this - got smoked by a New Dorker the other day and I was peeved b/c I slipped on takeoff. That irritates the heck outta me... :lol2:


Thanks again!

Red