Just got them in from a forum vendor. Are they hard to replace? Should we just have a shop swap'em out? Price quote was $70 for both + $100 for an alignment. If anyone has a service manual or know the procedure, we'd appreciate the help.

 

Here's what the service manual says. If you PM me your email address I'll send the same with the illustrations. Overall, it doesn't look like a hard job at all...

Tie Rod Replacement Outer End
Removal Procedure
Tools Required
J 42188 Ball Joint Separator

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.



Loosen, do not remove, the outer tie rod end stud nut (2) from the outer tie rod end ball stud.
Install J 42188 between the steering knuckle and the outer tie rod end stud.
Tighten the bolt on J 42188 until the steering knuckle and the outer tie rod end stud seperate.
Remove J 42188 and the outer tie rod end stud nut.
Remove the outer tie rod end stud from the suspension knuckle.



Loosen the jam nut (4) on the rear suspension adjustment link.
Remove the outer tie rod end (3) from the rear suspension adjustment link (1).
Installation Procedure




Install the outer tie rod end (3) to the rear suspension adjustment link (1).
Install the outer tie rod end into the suspension knuckle.

Notice
Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.


Install the outer tie rod end nut (2). Tighten
Tighten the outer tie rod end nut (2) to 20 N·m (15 lb ft) to seat the outer tie rod stud.
Turn the nut an additional 160 degrees.
Check the outer tie rod end nut for a minimum torque of 45 N·m (33 lb ft).
Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
Lower the vehicle.
Adjust the rear wheel toe as necessary and tighten the rear suspension adjustment link lock nut. Refer to Rear Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment

 

For $70 I'd pay to have it done ... just my $0.02.

 

Thanks! PM Sent.

 

Instructions sent to your email address. Good luck!

 

I received it - Thank you!

 

That seems pretty reasobnable to me. They are not bad to swap out and it only takes about 15 minutes a side but you'll need an alignment.

 

Rear toe WILL be affected