Talking about my 1953 Chevy 3/4 ton. Stock front end (and stayin' that way).

I'm doing a frame up restoration/rebuild and am currently working on the tie rod. Everything looks to be in good shape, no excessive or unusual wear that I can see. I was planning on rebuilding the existing tie rod ends when a buddy suggested that I replace the old tie rod ends with the newer, non-rebuildable type.

1) Any thoughts pro or con on swapping out the tie rod ends?
2) I was going to take apart the existing ends to inspect them (to see if they even needed rebuilding). Is there any trick to removing the screw cap that holds the springs, etc. in place? 3) The tie rod is on the bench. Should I put it back in place to make it easier to remove the screw caps or can I just clamp the tie rod in the vise?

Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated.

Jeff Nelson

"Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." - Benjamin Franklin
"Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest." - Mark Twain