I had thought I had come back and cleared up this but evidently it was another post.
To make sure we are talking apples and apples my panel is a 52. The other post I had going was probably where I was given the wrong part number by mistake and had some questions to help clear the mess up. Here is the "skinny" on mine.
As Joe says, the holes in the steering arm that the tie rod Ends go into are not tapered. I personally drilled them out and then punched them out with a hammer and punch as you see here.
You can see the back was "peened" and after grinding it down most will have a little "punch hole" where it was peened which is the center of the stud and you can use it as a center to dril.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r19/LutherParris/52Panel/100_1416.jpgThen grind the back side down smooth.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r19/LutherParris/52Panel/100_1418.jpgThen drill with a 1/4" and then 3/8"
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r19/LutherParris/52Panel/100_1419.jpgThen I punched them out with punch and hammer. Results here.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r19/LutherParris/52Panel/100_1420.jpgI checked the stud with dial calipers and it is not tapered.
When I got the correct "new style" replacement tie rod ENDS they were NOT tapered either.
NOTE: When I say the new ones are not tapered I speak in general terms. They measure to have approximately a .010 taper from from where the threads stop to where the end seats in the steering arm. Its just not noticeable like on most pieces that you can really see the taper. Therefore NO reaming in necessary. As Joe alluded to I believe you want it tight!!
AND, just to add another note. Yes, there is a small chamfer on the steering arm but MY way of thinking is it was there to help guide the original ball stud into the hole when assembled.
HOpe this helps clear up any confusion or questions... and remember I'm speaking about my 52. I'm not sure what others are the same.
