Stovebolters, I've read several threads on upgrading drag-link and tie-rod ends on mid 1940s to mid 1950s 1/2 ton trucks. All the vendors sell modern tie-rod ends for this upgrade (I believe they are all identical). I removed my original tie-rod balls in preparation to install new non-tapered tie-rod ends that I bought from Classic Performance Products (CPP). Everyone says the tie-rod ends drop right into the holes in the steering arms but in my case I believe they fit too loosely, the new tie-rod studs are .010" smaller than the hole. I did not damage the original holes in the steering arms during removal of the old balls so they are the stock diameter. Am I wrong to expect the tie-rod studs to fit snugly in the holes? The tie-rod studs measure about .522" while the ball stud I pressed out measures .532". My question is, has anyone that has done this upgrade experienced the tie-rod ends not fitting snugly in the steering arm holes? As to remedies I am open to suggestions. Is it safe to weld the old holes shut and re-drill a hole for a snug fit? Buying different tie-rods with a wider stud crossed my mind but there aren't any that would fit the other dimensions. Perhaps a machinist could press in a bushing and drill an appropriate size hole? Any help would be appreciated.
David
