The CPP kits sounds like a good deal. Two ends and the threaded rod, what more could you want. I switched my '37 over to the newer sealed tie-rod and dragline ends like CPP is offering. You do need to knock the old balls out so removing the arms is about mandatory. It's not that big of job getting them out once you drill into the back of them. GM peened the ends into the arms, and the hole through the arms is more hour glassed shaped then a straight round hole. With it peened over and the slight hour glass shape, the balls are held tight. The drill is to remove most of the peened metal, them you can press or drive them out the rest of the way. The new ends are straight shafted and drop right in with a nut and cotter pin to hold them.
The real advantage of the newer unit is the adjustability, you can center the steering wheel to the gear box for better driving truck.
When the original ball and socket joints get worn, the truck will steer hard and not be as smooth as it should be. The balls get egg shaped so when you turn, you not only have to fight the tire on the ground, but you also have to fight the springs in the tie rods. The springs hold the cups which hold the ball, it was GM's way of taking some of the harshness out of the steering wheel. Since these old trucks have a solid steering shaft and direct gear contact, the only give is in the tie-rods and drag link. I have not noticed any difference in how the steering feels on mine since switching, other then it's smoother and less messy when greasing it.
Joe
