can tie rod ends fall apart?

[240esseckz]

my tie rod ends are really worn out...the ball joints are worn to nothing...they spin around indefinately...and i was wondering if its possible for them to snap...fall apart...i know it would be real dangerous if they did...the steering is also real loose...and i know its probably from that...

[180fan]

Yes, like all metals, if you exert enough pressure, it will break. If there's enough play in the joint, you're asking for a breakage as there'll be that much leverage for the opening to apply on the threaded section. Tie rods are not expensive to replace anyway. If it's worn out, replace it.