How can you tell if TREs are shot if you have already took them off the jeep

 

Clean up the grease under the boot and take a look at the ball joint where possible. If any orange rust can be seen, scores, pits or anything other than smooth clean metal is found, they are on their way out. The best test past that is to hook the 2 back up to each wheel and use a pry bar carefully and see if the ball joint tries to move up and down in it's socket. You can't always see a fault until you can put force on it. I have a video of the same situation but on my track bar:

 

If you can move the ball around easily with your hand it is worn and needs to be replaced.

If it is sloppy and clicks when you move it around, it is dangerous and should have already been replaced.

A new TRE is pretty stiff in the socket. If you're still unsure get a new one and you'll have a better handle on what a good ("perfect") TRE feels like.

IMO it's never inappropriate to shoot the parts cannon at front end parts. Been in vehicles that have blew out tie rod ends and ball joints, and believe me, it's inconvenient when it happens.

 

If they are very old, its probably best to replace them, as you mentioned you damaged to the boots, and will need new boots anyway

imo, it is much better & easier to use 2 hammers to break the taper, I just did 2 XJ that way, no problems, boot is left intact

 

Thank you for all replies

 

No the boots were already broke down with age and beginning to crack, this fix began with only replacing the boots

 

I have a theory about suspension and brake parts. If one side is bad, chances are the other side will be bad soon anyway. Replace both sides together and have peace of mind. Especially brakes! Don't replace one side without the other, EVER! If it's an emergency repair, fix the other side ASAP.

 

Agree with both Daves - You've got the old ones off already, for a relatively low cost you can have new, unworn parts.

I experienced a slight DW situation about a year ago which was enough for me to drop a couple hundred bucks and completely replace the steering system. It's been driving beautifully ever since.

 

That was the original job, new calipers, brakes,rotors, not because I was running metal against metal, but for a upgrade. Thought why not I have a second vehicle, let's just go through Ethel (my xj) and do some upgrades and put that baby lift on that I've always wanted. But yes, both sides I have full intention