I don't understand how it would take any longer to replace the ends. You still have to knock the ball joints apart, a quick visual inspection will tell you the condition of the tie rod. If I were just doing the outside end it would only take a few minutes. Just pop one joint insted of two and count the threads. For my W126 at least the ends were a little less than $15 each and the whole rods were $50.

Of course if they are rusted replace the whole thing no use in fighting old parts. But no need to spend money that could go to other uses.

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2006 CL500
2009 C300 4matic
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200