I'm in the process of replacing the tie rods (and an axle... and brakes) on my 01 Outback (something I've done previously on my wife's car). I've got all the old stuff out and the new is on the way in, but I'm having a heck of a time getting the [aftermarket] replacement boot back on the steering rack. It almost seems too small. I recall it being a difficult & tight fit last time - but I did get it to work. No such luck now... any tips or suggestions. I don't know what I'm missing - and I've accidentally started a tear in the "flap" trying to pull it over the rack already. Suggestions? Anything is appreciated!
Crap... just realized I put this in DIY. DI-Why-Not would probably be more accurate. This is pretty much how my day has been...
Well... finally got the sucker figured out. The driver's side was a HUGE PITA... I ended up pulling the boot over a bottle in the garage, then sticking a few "shims" in to stretch the boot out a bit. After about 30 minutes I was able to get it started - and eventually installed. The passenger side (also pre-stretched at this point) was much easier to get on (as that side of the rack is a different shape & easier to attach anyway). Whew... long day. Almost fixed 2 cars (my wife's Outback LL Bean now has a "seized" slider on the front/right caliper/carrier. Got it soaked in WD40, but not expecting any good news from it in the morning.
