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I've got a 61 dart and I'd like to replace the heim joints on the steering linkages. The steering rods are a standard 3/8-24 thread on both ends and the balls have a 5/16 hole in them. I searched the archives and didn't see any post about where NOS or new rod ends can be bought. I've searched rod end mfgs on the internet and no one lists a 3/8 thread x 5/16 hole, rod end. I've got the original spindles and there isn't room for a 3/8 attachment bolt, it will hit the wheel (and I don't want to alter my spindles). I've put a larger flat washer on top of each rod end on my kart so I'm safe and the body can't jump off of the ball but mine are worn and I'd like to replace them. I'd appreciate any guidance you guys can give me. Don

Don, did you check the McMaster Carr website? They have a good selection of Heim joints. If they don't have it, get a 3/8" O.D. X 5/16" I.D. bushing or piece of tubing and use the 3/8 X 3/8 ends. I actually believe K&P Manufacturing (Bug) has the 3/8 X 5/16 ends in stock. Call Colin at 626 334-0334. TJ

Thanks Ted. Yes I tried McMaster, their the bible! They don't list any 3/8 with a 5/16 hole. All of the manufacturers list rod ends with the same diameter threads and ball i.d. Makes me wonder if its a safe practice type of deal. I'll give K&P a call. If I strike out there it looks like my best bet may be to tap out a 5/15 x 5/16 rod end to 3/8, assuming there will be enough wall thickness after I'm done, which of course, I'll check/calculate. Best regards, Don

I don't think redrilling and tapping the tie rod hole would be a safe practise. Putting a bushing in the ball hole is the acceptable way to do it. Bug does this themselves. The ends I put on my Nike are 3/8 X 5/16, and K&P sends them with a 5/16 to 1/4 bushing for people who have a 1/4" drilled spindle arm. Just push the bushing out and use them as is. The Nike has 3/8" tie rods and 5/16" spindle arms. TJ

Aircraft Spruce may possibly have them in that size.


John

Try Summit racings web page. QA-1 makes these. (3/8" X 5/16")

I'd still call K&P first on these. I do believe they have them. Support your vintage kart shop!
Hi, John. Will Charlie and I see you and your good lady at TBO? Hope do. Ted

Hi Ted,
Yes, We're planning on it. Looking forward to seeing you and Charlie again!

John

We surely missed everyone at Fremont last year! See ya soon. Ted

I checked Summit again and I still don't see a rod end with a female 3/8-24 RH and 5/16 hole in the ball. They have one with a 3/8-24 thread coming off of it but that's the opposite of what I need. I'll call K & P Monday, sure hope they have them. Thanks for everyone's input!