Tie Rods: Do Both Inners or all 4?

[MrCreosote]

I have an inner that needs replacement so I'm thinking since I have to get it aligned afterwards, maybe I should do both sides.

Then a mechanic friend said you have to unthread the outer to do the job - so I'm wondering if I should do all four.

I'll be doing the work so its an issue of cost - I haven't costed the parts yet.

Obviously, if I've worn out an inner, it is reasonable to assume the other inner is in similar condition, but I have no idea about the Outers. How long do they last?

And then finally, what is the expected life of the Rack and Pinion? When you replace that, do you get new inners???

Thanks so much in advance!
Tom

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Prices @ RockAuto.com

Spicer Red Tag: $36 for ALL FOUR (!)
Spicer Professional: just about $100 for all four.

wow, I wonder just how bad the Red Tags are?