Replacing tie rod ends in 2001 Neon. Big job ?

Well you should be able to tell if it is just the outers by looking at it when you check it. If it is just the outers, Go For it!! then have yhe alignment reset as soon as you are done

This is probably a stupid question... but how can I tell if it's just an outer? The inner moves within the outer, but the nut on the underside of the outer (holding the inner?) is solid.

well if you can see the tie rod shaft moving as you barely move the wheel with your hand you would be able to tell. if there is play and the shaft does not move then you would see only the tie rod move

Glenn Beasley Chrysler Tech

I know there is play - I just don't know where the play is. If I move the wheel with my hand, the outer tie rod end moves, but the inner tie rod end does not, nor does the nut/bolt that connects the inner tie rod end to the outer.

Thanks for your help. I replaced the outer tie rod ends and it was quite an easy job. I even managed to get the alignment pretty close... according to my mechanic. I also had to replace both front tires because they had got beaten up quite a bit. It's running very smooth now.

When I replaced the tie rod ends I made an effort to ensure I maintained the same alignment as before. I then took the car to be have the alignment checked, and to check out a periodic scrubbing noise coming from the front. The mechanic claimed that the alignment looked good but that the front tires were out of round. I then took the car to a tire shop where they confirmed that the tires were beat up (probably due to having two very slack tie rods). I replaced the tires and all is well. I didn't get an alignment reset so will keep a careful eye on the tires for any scrubbing, feathering, or uneven wear. I suspect they will be ok though.

I would highly recommend the alignment. Incorrect Toe settings will wear out a set of tires. just a thought