Tie-Rod Upgrade
1932- 1959 Chevy/GMC Specific
Ball to Tapered Stud - General 

MOST IMPORTANT

Safety is the single most important factor when undertaking any modification project. Any changes should be carefully studied to see how the modification will effect other components. The planed modification itself must be looked at closely to see if it and the components used are safe.

ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT

Originally, the early trucks from 1932 to 1959 used a tie rod end that cupped a ball trunions on the end of the steering arms. These tie rod ends consist of five separate parts contained in the housing. These parts are the seats, spring, safety plug and end plug. The seat caps surround the ball trunions and are held in place by spring tension exerted by screwing down on the end cap. As an assembly, the tie rod sits atop the ball trunions on the end of the steering arm. A foam rubber washer between the housing and the trunions base it used to seal water and dirt out. A grease zerk in the house provides a means for lubrication.

A REAL PROBLEM

The real problem with the original tie rod assembly is its strength and durability. The foam seal did not last long, which allowed water and dirt to enter the housing causing rust. In areas of the country where salts and chemicals are used to control ice and snow, it only worsens the effect. Soon the spring would freeze or brake, increasing the possibility of separation from the steering arm. Old grease, which harden in the housing end, also fouled the spring causing the same problem. Under hard braking and turning situations, the tie rod and steering arms would separate causing catastrophic results.

Up until the mid ‘60’s most trucks required chassis lubrication every 1000 miles or 4 months, which ever came first. This type of lubrication requirement was sooner than a regular oil change, so it wasn’t done on time in most cases. There are 24 lub points on a stock 48-55 1st truck. If you are not doing your own chassis lubrication, then I can almost bet you that not all your lub points are getting their fair share of lubrication. The point is, the lack of lubrication leads to the early failure of any tie rod and this tie rod isn’t very tough to begin with. [more]

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