Which usually goes first, outer or inner tie rods?

[mikepier]

I recently changed all 4 ball joints on my truck, and in the process also changed the outer tie rod ends. I'm just curious, do the inners also get worn out as much as the outers and are they prone to failure as much as the outers?
Has anyone changed their inners yet?

 

[alohamonte]

definately outters. probably twice as often.

 

[SoNic67]

I never had problems with inner tie rod ends. Replaced all outers on my vehicles when they reached some 120-180k miles. The right ones first (they "see" more potholes).

 

[71cutty455]

I agree that the outers go out a lot more often but I have replaced the inners on several vehicles including my 1998 Explorer. It's not that difficult and if you are going to do the outers why not knock the inner tie rods out as well? My one tip is to just use long zip ties (approx 8") on the boots when you are putting it all back together, the metal clamps from the factory will get all mangled up taking them off. I bought a big pack from harbor freight for a couple bucks.