Otto, the parts from Sky (rod ends, thread inserts, and taper inserts) came up to about $160, I paid about $38 for the DOM tubing (12" so a lot more than I needed), and my machinist machined the tube, welded in the thread inserts, and machined the pitman arm and steering spindle for the taper inserts (also welded them in place) for $75 so all in it cost roughly $275. Pricey but it's robust and I like the greasable rod ends.
Matt, I considered taking your approach but was not sure about the rod ends as you used. Safety washers is a good idea but I was more concerned about the wear from being open to the elements creating the potential for the steering becoming "loose". Tod ends like that are very common on four link axle set ups and farm hitches but in those applications a little clearance doesn't really affect things.
