I there a factory set number of turns for the outer tie rods during installion on a 1st gen Neon?

 

The same number in as out.

 

as long as the part is the same brand as the one removed.

i like to jack up the front end. measure from a fixed spot from tire to tire. change part and reinstall the tires. set the toe to the original measurement. if the steering not centered during the test drive somethings off. alignment is afterwards is always the best bet if you don't want to wreck your tires.