If you’re anything like me, you sometimes enjoy putting upgraded parts (whether go-fast or OEM improvements) on your vehicle “just cuz” (and I guess if finances allow for it).  Here may be one of those parts.  Mevotech TTX line of parts, specifically the outer tie rod.  The TTX (Terrain Tough) line is supposed to be their super tough, best engineered line of parts, as they do offer a standard OEM replacement level (Original Grade) and a mid-level (Supreme) lineup as well.

I saw these being newly introduced for the Sport from the Explorer forums and, even though nothing is currently wrong with the OEM ones I have now, I am in the middle of some suspension upgrades and figured, if I’m ever gonna do it, now would be the time.  Got me thinking about my SHO brothers and how it would fit.  Turns out the parts are different between the 2 platforms, but…they do carry an SHO version…

Anyway, just figured I’d share this with you guys if you don’t know and may be interested in them.  Not sure what your opinion is of the brand, but they seem worth taking a look at.  They appear pretty well built (although the package does say Made in China) and I do like how they are serviceable.  Rock Auto had ’em the cheapest (at the time of publishing this article) for the Sport at right under $32 each, but looks like the SHO version is more like $47 a piece.

Removing the tie rod wasn’t too hard in my case, but I know in some environments or if it’s very old, they can get pretty stuck.  I just hit the top of the threaded stud down with a small-handled 4-pound sledge and it came right out of the knuckle.

Now…for an alignment!