replacing tie rods, will this remove sway?

[katalenic]

replacing tie rods on e36 - dealer inspection when first bought identified as bad.
following symptoms I'm hoping will resolve
- rear tires worn after 6 months and less than 6k miles - will rear end alignment solve this?
- sway while driving, - steering wheel does not pull, but car seems to sway all over the road? - will the tie rods and new front end alignemnt fix this?
or is something else going on that I should look at?

Anything else you might replace before I pay for the front/rear alignment ($200)

[JhwShark]

$200 sounds high for the 4 wheel alignment, I paid 79 in CA at wheel works. Sway of the rear?? Take some pics of the tires showing the wear...

Front end tie rods wont change rear end. Check all suspension bushings, check shocks for suitable return...lets see the pic's...
Jon

[katalenic]

didn't take any pics - discovered in middle of winter here in MI, car was all over the road, found tires were completely bald after 6 months, no tread to be found.

can't find shop around to do alignment, they seem puzzled when I ask if cost includes the rear end alignment, that's why I was going to take to dealer to have done, but pay dearly

any info on how to check to areas for wear that you recommend, to know what "good" looks like?

[JhwShark]

Wheel works in CA and I bet Belle Tire (redwing fan) in MI can discuss alignment with you. They may give a deal on tires with an alignment. Or go with used until dignosed.

No tread after 6 mos is troubling no heavy foot...

To check shocks, push hard on each wing as close to where the shock is. Push hard and quick, does it rebound up quickly with out a lot of resonance (up and down setteling to static/normal position). If it doesn't return without any up and down bouncing shock is good if it bounces eventually settleing shock is bad. Also look at the tubes to see if any leakage.

Bushings will show cracks and gaps if they are bad. The alignment shop can look at these as well. also they can check the shocks. I just try to test before I deal with any shops and try to avoid dealers unless a specific part is needed.

Jon

[katalenic]

Found more local shops that will do 4-wheel alingment for around $85
Free inspection confirms tierods shot and rear trailer bushing very worn - but not sure which ones to buy - shop claims he has to remove nearly the whole rear suspension?