I don't know the answer to your question; but, I've used scissor type tie rod separators from auto part store loaner programs with better results than pickle forks. The scissor type do not do any damage to the boots.

Good luck!!!

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"Rudeness is a weak man's imitation of strength" - Eric Hoffer

I am not worried about damaging the 30+ year old boots

With Covid, our stores up here are not loaning tools. I would have to buy the scissor type and it is a bit costly for a 1-off job.

I may be ale to remove the tie-rods with just a hammer, but a pickle fork would be less likely to damage other parts.

If I don't get an answer here, I will have to crawl under car in morning before heading out to buy the fork!

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Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5