left tie rod
 

I have a noise when turning the left tie rod has a little play in it. Is this a big job to change ,without a lift? Do I just change the ends.87 sdl 81k thanks joes87sdl

I just ordered the stuff to rebuild my tie rods. It's not too much more to just buy the whole assembly. Cuts out a lot of labor, alot of cussing, and, if done right, you can save yourself from getting an alignment.

Buy the whole rod. You still have to try to get the length right. Alignment probably still a good idea. I have a tool to remove them from Autozoo, but it does not work very well. Often just wind up using pickle fork and big hammer since I'm replacing them anyway. Just remember to use anti seize paste on the mating surfaces so it comes apart easier next time.

Let me tell you; If I say it isn't hard, that's proof that it isn't hard...;)
I just did one side, working on the other. The tie rod assembly is the way to go.
No lift needed, just a jack, and blocking or jackstands. I'm an old mobile home guy, so I like 4x6's and 6x6's for cribbing, with the floor jack under the jack point.

Both ends on the driver's side came apart after three or four whacks with a 2 lb. hammer on a pickle fork. Likewise the outer tie rod end on the passenger side.
The inner one has resisted all efforts so far.
Getting a ball joint tomorrow, so I will get under it then and finish it off.

IMO, Nothing decorates a driveway like a 300SDL up on blocks. :D

Ah heck Mike, I was in cary last year for StarTech. The folks there seemed pretty easy going. I don't think an SDL on blocks would upset them much.

Bob :D

I replaced mine
 

I replaced the left inner tie-rod and counted the threads it was turned in to the tie rod. I put the new one on and counted the threads and now my alinment is all out of wack. ANy ideas?

counting threads...
 

probably an overall length measurement before disassembly would have been my preference - try adjusting in or out in small increments until you feel it's right, otherwise pop for an alignment this time and be warned in the future.

best luck,

john