katz,
I am looking at my Canadian manual for the 1955 second series. It states that on the 1/2 Ton models, there is an adjustable type tie rod end used. Now, this has the large slot screw plug in the end. If this is your setup, the joint comes apart by removing the plug and the outer contents. The ball can then be moved and popped out through the hole. Now, if you are replacing the whole tie rod assembly with the modern setup, the ball stud needs to be removed. The stud is permanently mounted in the steering arm with a shank that goes through and is swaged on the other side. The method for getting them apart is to grind off the swaged area and press it out. However I think you will find that the back side of the hole has a small channel or step inside and the swaged material fills this up. So the secret is to counter bore very slightly into the hole and then press it out. You want to make sure that the new setup from LMC has the correct diameter and that the shaft is not tapered.
Here is the method for removing the ball stud.
Tech Tip The hint or secret is right at the end of the tip regarding the tiny chamfer.
There are some posts on removing these ball studs. As far as correct information, I would trust the manual first, always.
