New Rack Boot Rip by tech

[Skully4]

Hi Everyone

This is my first post here at ToyotaNation. I have a 96 Avalon.
I bought a remanfactured rack/pinion and had Sears install.
The tech had trouble with the boot being in the way when he istalled
it and he cut the main metal clasp. Then he had trouble with getting the toe in to align on the machine and had guys underneath doing stuff as I watched. After 7 hours I left. 4 days later I discover the passenger boot ripped in half. He admitted to NOT lubing the inner tie rod shafts at install!

Then I called to report this crap to Sears main customer service.
The drivers side boot is MORE chewed up now then the passenger side.
The Manager was trying to make me feel like it was the part that was no good instead of taking responsibility for the tech NOT lubing the inner tie rod shaft which caused allof it. What would you guys do?

The manager was already at first trying to charge me for the drivers side install of a new boot at 75.00! This was the techs fault. I had to pay for a new boot 34.00 an Then he says he will only charge me half of the 75.00

Seriously can any tech that may be on here provide me with information on the install requirements as to the complete certified install.

I plan on speaking to the store manager face to face.
Cause I feel intimidated about it all I am very mixed up about all of this.

[robcam13]

ive been a certified toyota tech for over 5 years and i have torn one boot out of a few dozen rack installs. and my dealer replaced it free. they should not charge you for their mess up. they should take responceability for their actions and it should only take a few hours even with the alignment.

[Skully4]

Hi an thanks.

yes they should and i filed a complaint with BBB.
I plan on going to the local Toyota dealer and get a print out of the procedure of the lube of the inner tie rod. See he admitted in front of the Sears auto manager and me that he did not grease the inner tie rod/boot.

You must know the correct procedure so please do explain how else the boots can become damaged on install? Isnt not greasing the inner tie rod
the main reason?

Any other certified techs want to offer their expertise please?

Thanks