Specifically, ball joints and tie rods. I've replaced all four ball joints (RM ATV) on a Big Bear after one of them just completely separated. All had torn boots and were lubed with lots of mud. Last weekend I lost a tie rod end so now I'm going to replace all four of those. What should I go with? Bike Bandit has OEM for about $11 a pop. RM is $27/pair. Any other alternatives? I'm thinking OEM and just replace them every few years. I think Japan builds a better rod end than China. IDK. What's everybody else doing for stuff like that?
And Dennis Kirk? Sheesh... you need a Sherpa to navigate that website.
Oh yeah, I need to post up a pic of my zip-tie tie-rod fix that allowed me to keep wheeling for a few more hours. I used a cinch tie down strap to hold the tie rod together long enough to get back to the truck where I "fixed it" with zip ties.
I don't think there's any reason to replace tie-rods every few years. replace em when they get bent, that's about the most you'd need. ???
Sorry, tie rod end. It completely separated *clink* and fell apart.