The shop manual says the steering gear must be removed to replace the tie rods:
Volkswagen Workshop Manuals > Beetle L4-2.0L (AEG) (2000) > Steering and Suspension > Steering > Tie Rod > Component Information > Testing and Inspection > Page 7105
Here is the part for removing the steering gear:
Volkswagen Workshop Manuals > Beetle L4-2.0L (AEG) (2000) > Steering and Suspension > Steering > Steering Gear > Component Information > Service and Repair > Power Steering Gear, Removing and Installing
Looks like the subframe needs to be lowered and then you can remove it to the right side. I lowered my subframe recently to replace my catalytic converter. It wasn't that bad, it drops about 2" and will be supported by the still-attached suspension. There are 4 stretch bolts that will need to be replaced, my local dealer had to order 2 of them.
Not sure about Duralast. I'd use a German brand:
Volkswagen New Beetle 2.0 Steering Tie Rod
Volkswagen Workshop Manuals > Beetle L4-2.0L (AEG) (2000) > Steering and Suspension > Steering > Tie Rod > Component Information > Testing and Inspection > Page 7105
Here is the part for removing the steering gear:
Volkswagen Workshop Manuals > Beetle L4-2.0L (AEG) (2000) > Steering and Suspension > Steering > Steering Gear > Component Information > Service and Repair > Power Steering Gear, Removing and Installing
Looks like the subframe needs to be lowered and then you can remove it to the right side. I lowered my subframe recently to replace my catalytic converter. It wasn't that bad, it drops about 2" and will be supported by the still-attached suspension. There are 4 stretch bolts that will need to be replaced, my local dealer had to order 2 of them.
Not sure about Duralast. I'd use a German brand:
Volkswagen New Beetle 2.0 Steering Tie Rod