I have a 3rd Gen 4Runner. While in Moab last month, I tore a hole in (what I've been told is called) my rack boot -- the boot on the steering rod. Jaderunner told me he and Jeff the Marmot have done the same thing.

I spoke with Mike at Off Road Solutions to ask him about the necessity of replacing it, and he told me I should, saying that, otherwise, the possible damage can be anywhere from $800 to $1,000.

So I'm soliciting opinions about this:

1. How critical is it that the boot replaced?

2. Mike said, for him, it's a 1.5 hour job, and then requires re-alignment. I'm wondering if this is something a mechanical novice can attempt (the replacement, not the re-alignment).

3. Jaderunner patched his with shoe goo (sp?). Is that an adequate patch? (Could I just repack the boot myself and then "shoe goo" the hole?)

4. It didn't take me long to tear the boot, so I'm wondering if this is has been a frequent occurrence for others on the board who wheel.