Inner tie rod end

[zedfez]

I just found out that I need a new right inner tie rod end on my '88 iX. I have three related questions:

Do they usually go in pairs? i.e. Should I replace both the left and right sides?

Is there any option other than an oem tie rod? Can I replace just the inner end? I have not been able to find one for less than $120, and that seems like a lot to spend.

I know the outer end is iX specific, because of the weird bend, but is the inner section iX specific as well?

Thanks.

[nando]

best way to answer your question is to go to www.realoem.com and cross reference the part #s.

if the part #s are different, chances are it's ix specific.

[zedfez]

Yeah, I looked, but they do not have a separate part number for the inner tie rod section, only for the outer. I assume this is because BMW does not supply just the inner, they expect you to replace the whole rod, but I have seen a few places selling just the inners for regular e30's.

I think I'm just going to suck it up and buy the whole assembly. NAPA sells them for ~$95, and I haven't been able to find a better price than that.

[StereoInstaller1]

I was shocked at what a difference it made to do mine-all inner and outer-wish I had done it years ago.

Spend the money, it is SO worth it.

Luke