gpallem

Hi guys,
I'm new to the forum after getting a 2004 GC 4wd as work vehicle. Replaced the fuel pump, still have to replace the new fuel filter that whistles like mad, and am replacing the tie rods. While doing the tie rods, we found that they were mightily stuck in the sleeves (upper & lower). A bunch of dirt also fell out of the sleeves when we did get the tie rods out. Question now is:
Should we replace the sleeves (another $100 for the ones available here) or just reuse? I know new is better, but the idea of a work truck is to keep costs down. Thanks for the input!
Geert in Illinois

RockinRonnie

Welcome to the site gpallem !

$100 for adjuster sleeves I just looked at parts plus for moog parts the pair is like 45 cant believe they would be that much more in illinios think I would find a dif. part store! but if now just clean up and reuse the old ones.

gpallem

Thanks Ronnie! Looks like a fun group of enthusiasts here.
Yes, problem is availability locally and I have to get this done this weekend. I even called the dealer...they quoted $205 pllus tax...whut?!
So, yes, just going to reuse.

craigjacob1

If they are clean enough to thread on then re-using them will be perfectly safe.

gpallem

Thanks Craigjacob1. I use the savings to fix the hissing fuel filter--known problem apparently. That and buy some new rubber mats for winter. And fix the remote control in the passenger door. Other than that, I am really liking the torquey 4.0 liter straight 6 and the wiggly rear end sway this Jeep has.

dave1123

Wait....What? If the rear end is wiggly, check the lower control arm bushings. The outer shells tend to rot out and cause the rear end to move side-to-side. Also the upper single control arm has a ball joint on a triangular strut and the rubber bodymount bushings can deteriorate. When everything is right, that WJ should feel like it's on rails! Don't waste your time trying to replace those lower bushings either. Complete lower control arms are priced right and you can change them with just the 4 bolts.

Be careful with those tie rod and draglink tubes. The OEM ones are thin and the threads tend to disappear. I replaced mine with MOOG and they weighted quite a bit more.