allroadJohn

Hi Audiworld!

I need to replace my front tie rods on my 03 Allroad 2.7T, and am trying to decide between OEM, Blauparts, or other (like TRW, Moog, Beck/Arnley, Mevotech, etc. from Auto Parts Warehouse). Some of the stuff on APW looks less durable, but I have nothing to go on.

jdahlen24 over at AudiForums has a great writeup on replacement DIY, but only mentions he got the boots from blauparts, not the actual assemblies.

Blauparts has a pretty good article making a case for their product, but I wondered if anyone here has any experiences to share one way or the other.

Any recommendations?

Thanks!

-john

PaperToast

i went with these on my AR Meyle HD Tie rods
a lot beefier than the 'upgraded' audi parts

i think ECS still carries them too

allroadJohn

Thanks, PaperToast! Sorry but the link didn't work (must be session-based). I think you're referring to these part numbers: How did you know which outer one to choose? They look the same except for the number. Also, how did you know they were going to be beefier than the audi parts?

I found them on ECS here. What's odd is that the Meyle parts are 1/2 the cost of the "Genuine" ones, and they say something about a split in the 2002 model year. What does that mean? Also, at the bottom of that search, Meyle sells the complete tie rod assembly for $56! That can't be right... Do you have any idea why?

Does anyone else have any other recommendations? There have to be more people here who have replaced their tie rods!!

PaperToast

most of the suspension/steering parts are interchangeable between the b5/c5 chassis. there's only a few exceptions in the allroads' case

as regards being beefier. one thing is that it does say is 'heavy duty'.
the rest i didn't know until i got the parts.

in the end, theres no need to loose sleep over tie rods, just get what the budget allows and go from there; just don't go too cheap

allroadJohn

Thanks, PaperToast! Good advice