Need to build a draglink

I have a 50 GMC 100 with stock front suspension. Tie rods and king pins seem to be in good shape but the draglink has a bit of slop that I would like to correct. I've read that others have used modern tie rod ends w/couplers to make a new draglink but the tie rods are tapered which require a trip to the machine shop to have the pitman and steering arm drilled out with a taper, I'd like to avoid that additional expense if possible. Do they make a tie rod end with a straight shaft? If so , any part #'s would be appreciated. What about using a Hiem rod end as an alternative?

Thanks,

Alex

 

A hiems woud work good, but if so buy chromemoly or a high strength ones with the teflon liner.

 

There are a few truck suppliers that sell the straight shank shafts, there around 40 or 50 apiece best I remember. I was going to do that at one time, but took the cheap route and had mine tappered for 20 bucks and used ford tie-rod ends on all the steering parts.

 

Great thread. Subscribed.

 

re-tapering the pitman arm and steering arms is not a big deal , i do it all the time. it should not cost you very much money. you will get some to disagree , but i do not like heims for street use..stay with tie rod ends

 

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