It's just a water / dust seal not a support. Probably helps keep engine/axle smells out of the cabin as well and only costs a few £ to replace.
I don't see how that could be the case.Is it possible that given I have a slight weep in the steering pump not the steering box and I mean ever so slight that this could contribute to the problem??
I will get the tracking done tomorrow and report back
Well after much heating and hanging off the bar with a pair of stilsons the chap gave up. HE was concerned too much more heat would start to melt the boots on the ends so I said leave it to me and i will return once i have done it.
I cant remember exactly but he said they where about by 0.12 not degrees but he said something else so yes they are not right let alone 1/2degree in. Time to get a ball joint separator and some new ends and get to work.