240SX S14 Steering and pinion rubber boot replacement

[mrtsb4]

So as I was replacing my zenki's shocks I noticed that my rubber boot for steering was torn apart . I know that this could get to be a HUGE problem for steering because a lot of dust and dirt could get in through the gap and ruin my seals or some s***. I was researching for a replacement and came up to a lot of options. Probably the best choice is to go with ebay ones because they are cheap and doesn't differ from any OEM ones... . Any comments on that? Also if anybody changed them How did you do it and how difficult was it?

Here's my problem :



Here's the ebay options:

[Hijacker]

I'm usually not a huge fan of the rubber you find on ebay. Most of it's cheap and questionable on quality, but if you're in a pinch, it'll work. Nissan charges around 20 a boot if I remember right. I prefer OE as they have the metal clasps rather than zip ties. But that's my preference.

As for changing them out, it's pretty simple. You'll need an alignment afterwards as you have to disconnect the tie rod ends.

First, back off the tie rod end jam nut and then unscrew the tie rod end from the inner tie rod.

Second, pull the old boot off. The metal strap is usually just a twist tie like crimped fixture, and with a pair of pliers, it comes off. The boot should just slide off then.

Third, put the new boot on and if you have metal clasps, you'll need to use something to twist them fairly tightly. The service manual recommends 4-4.5 twists, and then fold them so they lay facing the rear of the car (protecting them from road debris by the rack)

Thread the tie rod ends back onto the inner tie rods and take it to an alignment shop.

[mrtsb4]

Thanks a lot, Hijacker!