I personally have never heard of the "Torch" not working on tie rod ends...I think someone is pulling your chain a little too tight. I would try a local shop or a Midas garage and stand there and watch the miracle of heat (when done right). I had the rod ends done on my Rodeo two years ago and it only cost me $100.00 complete and they had to torch the ends because of all the salt they use up here in the winter.
John