Tie Rod Boot

[h00dling]

I have a 1990 Nissan 240sx.

The Tie Rod Boot on the driver side of my car is torn. I was curious if this will cause damage to the rack assembly or not? Looking at my FSM it looks as though dirt getting into this boot is going to do damage to the rack & pinion. I need to get this fixed, but I was curious what damage might have occured.

My main symptom right now is a grinding noise while braking hard and when hitting bumps in the road.

Any help would be great.

Thanks

[Axel Grungy]

i would definately replace both, i had to on mine when i purchased it. obviously dirt can get in there and screw up the rack. i got my boots at napa for like 10 a peice i think.