1989 T1 208d Track rod end woes

[Goldie1989]

Morning, all.

Newbie here so my apologies if I'm in the wrong zone.

Our beloved bus, Goldie, failed the MOT yesterday for 'Track rod end ball joint dust cover excessively damaged', both sides. Now my MOT man is telling me I need to replace the whole shabang, track rod ends, drag links etc. Apparently you can't simply reboot these ones, anyone know if that is correct?

Many thanks,
Oakley

 

[clarkmichigan55b]

Good morning and welcome,
Over the years i have had to replace mine as they have also deteriorated. I have had to used non standard parts to get round the problem. There is two different sizes i have enclosed a picture of the type of boot that is fitted from new.
As you can see from the enclosed image the boot has a metal ring that presses on to the track rod. I have used boots without the metal ring and so far have been ok but the quality is reasonable.
I bought them on ebay but the company does not trade any more.
Unless the track rods are worn i would reboot them they are long lasting my van has done 110000+ with no sign of wear.
Hope this is of help.

 

[Rockron]

Measure the diameters of the damaged boot openings and height or the actual ball joint stud and the housing, then look for nearest match on ebay. A little undersize is preferable to oversize, they can then be stretched to fit. If difficult to position, after cleaning the steel parts with alcohol I find a bit of superglue will bond the rubber and steel. I also fit the supplied rubber or steel rings on to keep Mr, MOT man happy