Aren't the 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton tie rod ends the same from 1939-1959?
I have received good service from the original-style adjustable (non-sealed) 3100 tie-rod ends.
Yes, their rubber caps/covers are less than adequate, and they are often not very long lasting (they can be replaced).
The balls bolt right in and are easily serviced (lubrication and adjustments)
Replacement end-assemblies are available (I do not know if balls are), but they are much more expensive than changing to the sealed-style tie-rod ends.
Since chassis lubrication should take place every 1000, if you do standard scheduled lubrication, you can easily clean, inspect, and adjust all front-end and suspension parts at the same time.
Nonetheless, there are no negatives in switching to a non-adjustable/sealed set of tie-rod ends, assuming they are bolt-in replacements.
