I will be doing a suspension rebuild on my 86 GT and have a few questions. I am replacing pretty much every thing with a few exceptions. The only thing in the front that isn't getting replaced are the steering rack tie rods and ends. Should I replace the tie rod ends (outer) as long as I am at it? Do they wear out or do you only replace them if they are damaged?

For the rear, I am wondering what I should do as far as the ball joints and tie rod ends. Pretty much the same questions as above.

Thanks for the help.

Gregg

I was faced with a similar question when I started my suspension project. I decide to replace anything that looked even slightly worn. With over 100K hard miles, it wasn't hard to find stuff to replace. If there is any play in those tie rods, replace them. Double check the inner tie rods carefully. All three of my Fieros had excessive wear on the inner tie rods, which are harder to replace than the outer ones. I decided to replace all my tie rod ends and ball joints too. I didn't want to replace half the stuff, pay for an alignment, then a year later have to replace the rest and get another expensive four wheel alignment.

Same for me as Batboy, I replaced everything new. It was easy since everything was apart.
The extra cost will save you in the long run.