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Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 3
Grease Monkey
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Grease Monkey
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 3 |
has anyone upgraded the drag link to a tie rod end on a 1950 chevy auto?
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,046 Likes: 107
Hall Monitor ChatMaster - 7,000
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Hall Monitor ChatMaster - 7,000
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,046 Likes: 107 |
I have not but I'm sure someone can help you. I'll move this to where you'll get a wider audience to answer your question.
VCCA Member 43216
Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet.
1938 HB Business Coupe
1953 210 Sedan
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Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,024 Likes: 99
ChatMaster - 4,000
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ChatMaster - 4,000
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,024 Likes: 99 |
I expect that it can be done. Older Chevy tie rods used the ball-stud ends. There have been some converted to the ball socket tie rod end.
The key is finding tie rod ends that will thread into the steering connecting link center section. Then you will need to have the pitman arm modified. The ball stud needs to be removed and a tapered hole machined into the arm. The same work needs to be done on the steering idler and third arm assembly.
Unless the parts are worn or the springs are broken, the ball-stud assemblies work very well
Rusty
VCCA #44680
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141
ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141 |
I would not consider this change. The original design never had problems other rarely a broken spring which is easily replaceable.
With the cups and springs it is designed to absorb road shock - which a tie rod end can not do.
Gene Schneider
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Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,024 Likes: 99
ChatMaster - 4,000
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ChatMaster - 4,000
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,024 Likes: 99 |
Gene makes a good point.
There is no “rag joint” or rubber giubo type connection between the steering gear box and the steering wheel on this design.
The drag link is the one place that steering shock is absorbed.
Plus this design can be adjusted to compensate for wear on the ball stud and sockets. Tie rod ends have to be replaced if they wear.
Rusty
VCCA #44680
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