2008 TL AT 143,000 miles

This week I discovered a 12 inch long 3 inch wide wear strip on a front tire that had gone thru the first belt layer. I had bad shaking in the steering wheel as well. It turns out that the Left front outer tie rod end (TRE) had severe play in it. I can't understand why I had not identified it previously. The right side outer TRE and both inner TRE's are solid. I got a new Moog outer at a local Advance Auto/CarQuest and got it installed in under an hour.

I put a Sharpie dot in the very center of the old cap above the TRE ball joint and one on the new one. Before removing the old one I measured from the dot to the edge of the inner boot, exactly 23.6 cm. I installed the new one using that measurement. She drives and tracks exactly as new now. I felt like a genius.

I also put new rubber all around yesterday. It is smooth and accurate. Pure joy and satisfaction.. and pride.

 

Hey algonquinloon, appreciate the diagnosis, and repair explanation. Good call on taking the measurements, so no need for alignment. Thanks

 

Thanks man. I recall searching 'clunking' threads and don't recall seeing any mention of tie rod ends. I was sure it was related to the compliance bushing and was ready to buy a new lower control arm. Hopefully other members with clunks will not overlook the tie rod end as I had. It was ready to give way at any time I believe.