Tie rods are key components in your Volvo's front suspension and steering system. Since the late 1960's, the ball joints on most Volvos have been of the lifetime design, i.e. no grease fittings for lubrication.
Under normal conditions they can last for over 100,000 miles. When abused or used in unusually rough road conditions the life span can be greatly reduced. When a ball joint or tie rod begins to wear it will usually increase the amount of effort required to steer the car.
Once wear has started, these parts usually will deteriorate rapidly as the load generated by the suspension and transferred through the ball joints and tie rods is very great. Typically you will begin to notice some looseness in the steering or you may notice that your Volvo has a difficult time holding a straight line down the road.
Although the parts aren't terribly difficult to inspect, you should have a good workshop manual handy for reference. If you suspect you've got a problem in the front end, make a point of inspecting these parts soon.
To determine whether you have a ZF rack or Cam rack most 240's had Service Plates (or labels) to designate the type of rack. 1978-79 the plate was on the door pillar. On 1980-93 the plate was on sheet metal between the grille and radiator (viewed by lifting the hood). Find the label of Steering gear (on the plate) and next to it will be a single digit code. 2, 4 & 5 indicate Cam racks, 3 indicates ZF.
