quick ?, how to remove

[B17CRX]

Getting ready to install new style tie rod ends and tie rod on my 55 2nd series and I would like to know how you guys have removed the old ball studs from the steering arms??

-Joel

[prostreeter58]

get yourself a set of pickle forks..........Sears carries them..........

[B17CRX]

Originally Posted by prostreeter58

get yourself a set of pickle forks..........Sears carries them..........

No not those, on the left and right there are two ball studs that fit into the ball sockets on the ends of the tie rod. The new style tie rod ends need a hole to go into and so either the old ball studs need to be drilled/cut out or maybe I need to have a machine shop press them out???

-Joel

[pugs]

lokk at the ends usually a cotter pin is there remove it and what looks like a slot at the end will actuall unscrew and release the pressure on the spring inside and that will release pressure on the inner ball lock

[B17CRX]

Originally Posted by pugs

lokk at the ends usually a cotter pin is there remove it and what looks like a slot at the end will actuall unscrew and release the pressure on the spring inside and that will release pressure on the inner ball lock

10-4, thats done. but now I need to get the ball stud removed from the steering arms to make room for the new tie rod end to bolt to. maybe I need to post a pic on what I am talking about?

-Joel

[pugs]

i believe the are pressed in,maybe alittle heat will help, but i dont believe the newer style ends will work anyway not enough of a cast end to make it seat properly

[B17CRX]

Originally Posted by pugs

i believe the are pressed in,maybe alittle heat will help, but i dont believe the newer style ends will work anyway not enough of a cast end to make it seat properly

hmmm, that doesn't seem right. If the newer style ends don't work then why would LMC and others sell them and say that the old style ball and socket ends are no longer available and also not particularly safe if worn?

Someone here must have performed this swap successfully and has some tips to share.

-Joel

[Knothead]

Yes, You are correct about needing a press to get the old ones out. I filed the ends until you can see where the two pieces join, It took a hyd. press to get them to seperate.

[dwcsr]

Drill the center out with a 1/2" drill bit and drive the ball out with a drift and hammer. They come out very easy that way.

[B17CRX]

Originally Posted by dwcsr

Drill the center out with a 1/2" drill bit and drive the ball out with a drift and hammer. They come out very easy that way.

I'll give it a shot.

-Joel

[55dude]

hey dude post some pic's as you go along for the next guy.

[B17CRX]

Originally Posted by 55dude

hey dude post some pic's as you go along for the next guy.

Ok, so I broke a drill bit and one of my punches, but they are out! I went ahead and added the step by step pics to my build thread.

http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...67#post2939467

-Joel