My outer tie rods broke and went to honda to price replacements and come to figure they dont stock them. Theyd have to special order it. At 54.00each i decided to source elsewhere. I found that hardrace has a set with the pillowball joints which would be a few dollars cheaper for the set compared to oem. So has anyone installed the outer tie rods from hardrace and what are the pros and cons? Any input would be beneficial.

 

Pillowball (i.e., spherical bearings) would probably be a bad choice for tie rod ends on a street driven car, especially one that is driven in incelement weather.

Spherical bearings are great in race cars because they remove any slop from a susepnsion joint. You get faster response and less slop. On a street car that just translates into increased NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) in the steering.

Also, unless these are sealed they will quickly wear out on the street from rain, dirt, debris, etc., and then you'll have loose, loud tie rods, which is the worst of all worlds.

Unless you're using the car exclusively as a track car, I'd opt for OEM tie rod ends.

 

Have you checked to see if there are any aftermarket companies offering OEM replacements?

 

I can get the OEM ends cheaper than that. PM me if interested.

 

Hey guys thanks! My s2 is daily driven so oem is best suited in my situation. Also when alignment is done most shops wont warranty the labor since its after market in most cases right? Ill send you a pm s2dave bc i need my car fixed asap!