on jackstands: entire wheel assy. moves side to side

[DavidT]

What is the common problem here... Is it the tie rods?
There is NO play top to bottom, but there is about 1/2 inch play side to side, and EVERYTHING seems to move...all the way to the strut tower (not as severe though).

 

[autobahnsho]

It could be.

Or maybe the wheel bearings. Or steering rack is loosely mounted to the subframe.

When you lock the steering wheel (key off) does it still move?

Good luck,

 

[fricker66]

If you are seeing movement while holding the wheel at 3 and 6 oclock, then it's usually a sign of worn tie rods. Could be either inner and/or outer ends that are failing. If possible, have someone move the wheel while you check the ends for movement. There are plenty of possible culprits but worn tie rods are very likely. Wheel bearings would also tend to allow movement while holding the wheel at 12 and 6 oclock.

 

[DavidT]

how much are tie rods for a 91?

 

[fricker66]

how much are tie rods for a 91?

If you have an O'Reilly's close to you, check out their Autodrive (storebrand) replacement parts. These are the identical parts as compared to the MOOGs but at a cheaper price. The outer tie rods are greaseable which is the way to go. It's been over a year but I recall the price was around $50 - 60 for 2 outer and 2 inner tie rods. Do yourself a favor and replace all of them at once. You'll need an alignment afterwards so no since in having to pay for that again when the next tie rod fails..........