tie rod boot replacement

[PaperToast]

how hard is it?
pic for reference

[julex]

Fastening with new crimp band is the challenge and you definitely will need some kind of crimper/pincers capable of doing it sideways, like here http://www.motionpro.com/product/12-0073. Don't even think of using worm clamp in there, it will be too wide.

[4rings2turbos]

The outer tie rod unscrews and there is a nice access panel right there for more space. If you follow Julex' advice it won't be too hard at all. In a previous life a mechanic tried to ziptie one of those on my tip allroad lolz.

[julex]

Forgot to add the bit about out tie rod. Make absolutely sure to mark a line going across inner-lock-nut-outer rod shaft with some kind of line indicating depth of thread as well... If you don't re-fasten it exactly the way it was, you'll have to do re-alignment of car.

[njpcyclist]

Forgot to add the bit about out tie rod. Make absolutely sure to mark a line going across inner-lock-nut-outer rod shaft with some kind of line indicating depth of thread as well... If you don't re-fasten it exactly the way it was, you'll have to do re-alignment of car.

I just replaced an inner tie rod. Bought a new boot / bellows, and both new clamps just to be sure. The outer, smaller spring clamp was easy. T he inner "band clamp" was a royal pain in the ass.
Suggest you warm the new book in hot water to make installation easier. The plastic access panel removed will give you enough space to get a crimp tool or long needle nose pliers in there to compress / crimp the band tight. As said by others, it is totally doable . But a real PITA . Just like almost every other mundane task on the C5.