01 530i Sport Suspension... My first Post, so be gentle... :)

Driver's side boot split... Passenger side OK... I have a pair of new boots, and plan on replacing both...

My question is:

Can I only remove the "Inner Tie Rod" from the Steering rack, by turning the Huge Nut, then slip the new boot on, and then re-mount the Inner Tie Rod to the Rack?

I don't want to split the Tie Rod (alinment), or Remove the tapered Joint at the wheel... (I don't have a tool that fits)

Removable Locktite on Inner Tie Rod Threads?

If I have to have an Alinment to just replace the Boots, I'll have to take it to the BMW Shop out of town... I just had the Driver's Door Regulator Replaced a few weeks ago...

Thanks...

I thought I answered this on another board. Yes, you can remove the inner nut with a 32mm wrench. No, you do not need an alignment if you do not touch the nuts that actually adjust the length of the tie rod. Just make sure you have a towel or pan underneath as some of the lube will drip out.

You can look at the pics through the following link. The tie rod was still attached to the steering knuckle at the time. The pics are toward the bottom of the page.

http://picasaweb.google.com/mmm635/KoniStrutAndShockReplacement

I think you did, but I got confused when another fellow said that the Tapered Joint had to be removed also???

Something to the effect that the inner Tie Rod would run out of threads, and could't be removed without seperating the Tapered Joint... Which didn't make sense to me, because all you would have to do is turn the steering wheel (move the rack), or turn the wheel itself... Good Pics...

Thanks...

I think you did, but I got confused when another fellow said that the Tapered Joint had to be removed also???

Something to the effect that the inner Tie Rod would run out of threads, and could't be removed without seperating the Tapered Joint... Which didn't make sense to me, because all you would have to do is turn the steering wheel (move the rack), or turn the wheel itself... Good Pics...

Thanks...

Yes, that is all you need to do - turn the wheel and make sure it is not locked (key in ignition). Don't know where he got that from. The pics I posted up on my car - the ball joint side was still in.

My next door neighbors, who moved in about 6 months ago, are from Foley, AL - very nice people.