In a message dated 9/17/03 2:13:36 PM, vw4x4@FYI.NET writes:

<< The opening that is left after removing
this dounut just might fit over the ball joint.  Anyone ever try this? >>

ERic,

A couple of hours ago, I did exactly what you described on a '90 Syncro.  The
outer tie rod end had to be worked through the smaller end of the boot, but
it was not a big deal.

One thing I noticed was that a power steering rack which I have in stock from
an '86 Syncro does not have the grommets on the tie rods and so the smaller
ends of the boots are the same diameter as the tie rods and too small to fit
over the outer tie rod ends.  On the other hand, a manual rack which I have from
an '84 2WD uses the same boots as the '90.

Another rather sorry-assed difference which I noticed was that the locking
slots for the tie rods are on the top of the rack on the '90 while on the '84
manual rack the are on the bottom.  The only reason this makes a difference is
that I had wanted to change the tie rods with the rack on the car.  Perfectly
doable on the '84, but on the '90 the steering rack has to be pulled.  Best
laid plans and all that.

George