Tie Rod Dust Cap Question...

[duckhunt]

I'm sure this has been asked before but how important do y'all consider the little boots that cover the ball joint on the tie rods? The tractor is a L4240 and I noticed one of mine was pulled back, after some sweat and blood I managed to the get the thing back in place. I checked the other side and noticed that it has a small tear. I was thinking about just replacing both boots because both look pretty rough. It doesn't look like there is much movement coming from the joints so I thought about using a grease needle and just grease them from time to time. Any thoughts?

Thanks

 

[JRobyn]

The boots on my L4330 are continually torn. Kubota parts prices are too high to repeatedly replace the boots, plus, they are a pain to replace properly. I figure when they wear to the point of becoming sloppy or squeaky I'll just replace the entire joint/boot. I don't even try to grease them, as I figure that would just attract more abrasive grit. So far, it's been about 4-5 years, with the tractor living outdoors and uncovered, and they are still in fine shape.

 

[TripleR]

Some people just wrap them in a tire tube or something. I'll replace mine if they tear, doesn't cost much, but won't be in a big hurry.

 

[Egon]

Tire tube. Duct tape. Heavy rubber electrical tape.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Due to high speed tractor operation it may be dangerous when play exceeds 1/8". With no boot they get up to about 1/16" play after around 2500 hrs.

 

[countrybumpkin]

You can buy universal fit dust boots if you want too at a local auto parts store.

 

[pmsmechanic]

These boots can also be repaired with windshield adhesive. The same stuff that car windshields are glued in with. Just clean the boot with brake clean and apply. Local glass shops can supply the adhesive.

 

[rScotty]

Some people just wrap them in a tire tube or something. I'll replace mine if they tear, doesn't cost much, but won't be in a big hurry.

I've wrapped them with a tire tube clamped at both ends with hose clamps myself. Yes, it looks ungainly but sure does keep dirt and water out of that joint.

Once when John Deere wanted a fortune for their replacement tie rod boots my wife took some old blue jean legs and made two tubes with zippers! I zipped one over each joint (with the zipper side down), and then used some cord to make a good-looking whipping that closed the ends of the fabric tube tight around the metal of the tie rod. Very spiffy.
rScotty