96 Explorer Squeaks!

[The Slider]

A friend of mine just got a 96 Explorer and its embarrassing how loud it squeaks in the front. We changed out the shocks and that didnt fix it. I got underneither the truck and when he turns the steering wheel back and forth I hear it coming from what looks like a rubber boot (like whats on a stabilizer shock) and looks like a hose is hooked to it. I have no idea what that part is, I could be wrong about a hose hooking to it. but can someone tell me what that boot is?

Thanks!
Chaz.

 

[The Slider]

Its the Inner tie rod... Is there a way to grease it? or do you just chunk it and replace it? or does someone know a neat little trick??

Chaz.

 

[chrwilkins30]

If it's factory then you cannot just grease it. If it's not, then there should be a zerk fitting to grease it up. But check to see if it just needs replaced first. Jack that side wheel upand put your hands at 3 and 9 position on the wheel and push. If there is any play or doubt in your mind it's bad just replace it.