I understand your frustration. There are replacement balls available. I've replaced the ones on my '51 pitman arm. I wouldn't try to jury-rig a drag link. That's something that you don't want to risk your life (or that of others) on. Another option to replacing the balls is to ream the straight holes with a taper reamer.

Kevin
1951 Chevy 3100 work truck
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1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car)
Busting rust since the mid-60's
If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.