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Tie rod end at pitman arm?

jperry1290

Sr. Member
Joined
Jul 1, 2010
Messages
908
I currently have a heim steering TRO setup. I am looking to eliminate the heim that attaches to the pitman arm. Can I use a tie rod end in place of the drag link end? I have found some custom Chevy one ton tre’s that have better articulation than stock Chevy tre’s.

I’m trying to find one that is the same length as the heim so I can plug and play without cutting and re-welding the drag link.
 
Last edited:

AZ73

Contributor
Bronco Guru
Joined
Mar 28, 2012
Messages
3,541
You'll need a taper insert since you're heim bolt is probably drilled straight through the pitman. For one ton you need to make sure the hole in the pitman arm is the size required for the insert. I used this:

https://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/DLINSERT.html

As for the tie rod end, it probably depends. Do you have a lift? If not you MAY be able to get away with a standard tie rod end, but I wouldn't want to try it. The problem is the drag link has a much higher angle required of the end. If you can get a custom one that allows rotation for the higher angle while being the length you need, you're good to go.
 

Broncobowsher

Total hack
Joined
Jun 4, 2002
Messages
34,834
Or change pitman arms back to a tapered one.

I doubt you will find one with the correct threads to match the hiem.
 
OP
OP
jperry1290

jperry1290

Sr. Member
Joined
Jul 1, 2010
Messages
908
I went to all the machine shops and the would not weld or machine me new parts, due to liability. I did find a welder that will work for extra cash on the weekend, so hopefully problem is solved just a matter of getting it done. I will just switch to all GM 1 ton ends
 
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