When replacing the entire Audi Allroad tie rod assembly or just the Audi inner tie rod ends, we always recommend replacing the Audi Allroad tie rod boot (also called tie rod bellows). If you are replacing just the Audi Allroad tie rod end be sure to inspect the Audi Allroad tie rod boot for signs of aging. The Audi Allroad tie rod boot is plastic and prone to stress cracks. This is important preventative Audi Allroad tie rod end maintenance and can help prevent premature Audi Allroad tie rod end wear. Replacing the Audi Allroad tie rod boot at the same time as the inner tie rod end will also save you money in the long run. Too, it's important to note that there are two possible Audi Allroad tie rod boot sizes in the 1999 chassis. The vin splits given by Audi are so close and have proved to incorrect in some instances. There is a 7.5" Audi Allroad tie rod boot and a 10" Audi Allroad tie rod boot in 1999 (see picture to right). Customers will need to verify which size they have. Please Note: This measurement should be made when the Audi Allroad tie rod boot is taken off the car and uncompressed. We've made this replacement easy by putting together a convenient kit which includes the Audi Allroad tie rod boot (bellow) which covers the Audi inner tie rod end, securing clamps, securing bolt, and high pressure moly grease for lubrication the tie rod inner joint (see picture below).
In the event of a failure of Audi Allroad tie rod ends or assemblies, your Audi parts specialist has the solution. Some original Audi Allroad tie rods have a link in between the ball joint and the tie rod end which is embedded in rubber (see OEM Version in Image 2). Thanks to power steering, drivers no longer feel the great force caused when turning the steering wheel. These forces create significant surface pressure on the Audi Allroad tie rod end ball pin in the bearing shell. Continuous or extreme dynamic strain as well as corrosion on the tie rod end can cause Audi Allroad tie rod end failure. Audi Allroad tie rod end failure reveals itself by squeaking and rattling along with a loose steering feel. BLAUfergnugen's improved Audi Allroad tie rod end version has eliminated the susceptible rubber element on the Audi Allroad tie rod end, replacing it with a full metal version with minimum or no increase in steering vibration. Another big tie rod end improvement is the enlarged diameter of the Audi Allroad tie rod ball pin and thus increased the load-capability. This increase on the Audi Allroad tie rod end ball joint diameter is from 22mm to 27mm which translates into longer tie rod service life. We have them available at a great price!
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