So I went to check my outer tie rods today for replacement on my 1991 Integra and so I took my tire off to see and I noticed when I grabbed the outer and inner tie rod in the middle it was easily rotated left and right just a little. Is that normal for the inner tie rod to rotate like that? I was told that my outer tie rods needed to be replaced about 5 monthas ago by my tire shop But am now just getting to it. So is it normal for that kind of turn/rotation movement?

If it helps anyone to know my car doesnt shake or jerk when driving but does feel sloppy around corners/turns. And my car is not lowered in any way.

 

yes its normal to wobble the tie rod like that. thats not the direction of motion that particular balljoint matters. you need to have a friend turn the steering wheel and you can feel for play at the balljoint. or with the wheel/tire on, shake the wheel at the 3 and 9 o clock position to diagnose the outer tie rod balljoint.

go over the whole suspension looking for play. including the steering rack. if there are any torn boots, its highly likely you need to replace whatevers underneath.

 

sounds like worn bushings and a worn steering rack

the reason you feel that in the rods is because they are a ball and cup design. kind of like putting your hand over your fist

 

Awesome thanks guys. I dont have any torn boots but my bushings do look shot all to heck. Might need to start replacing those. I also think that G2IC has a write up for worn steering racks I might take a look at unless you guys know of a good one on H-T.