[lineslinger]

Don't take it off topic Ernie, save your valve pictures, they are very nice shots but they have nothing to do with the question at hand.

Jockey, I tried really hard not to tear up the boots while changing out my tie rod ends, you can do it but the rubber will take a beating, to the point of where you start to worry about the sealing capabilities. Sacrifice the boots and make sure the mechanicals are strong, grease and rubber are cheap, buy some new boots and enjoy the confidence of your new parts and work.