Don't know what this is called...

[Fryedbm]

So it runs from steering down to rack and pinion. The boot is split open pretty far. I'm sure I need to replace it but tell me if I need to check for anything serious before buying the boot(I have no idea how long it has been that way). Also is it even something I can do on my own? How much of a priority should I make it?

 

[RustyShackleford94]

Is it your steering shaft? Cant really tell by the pic

 

[Fryedbm]

I believe it is. Sorry. I took it more than once but the sun is in a bad place for the pic to look good....