Pete...
The bottom line here is to carry a couple of spare rods and tools to change them with you if you go offroad. The P/N for the rods are 26059210 and you can get them from
www.gmpartsdirect.com for about $31.00 including s/h each. A pair of griplock pliers,
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=6970&productId=13820&R=1382 0 will work in a pinch to change them with. When you get good at changing them you don't even have to take the outer tierod end loose from the steering knuckle, just unscrew the rod from the centerlink and then unscrew it from the tierod end.
BTW, you might want to join us at Katemcy Rocks March 17-21. See the post on the events page under National HUMMER Event for the link. It's a great place to get some good experience.
Don