What size heim joints for custom tie rods? Options

[914turboford]

What size tie rods should be used to get the proper strength to make up some custom tie rods? Would 7/16" be adequate or should 1/2" be used?
Brian

[Brett W]

The way you intend to mount the rod end on the steering arm will make a difference. I would start with turbo tie rods because of the ball on the rack side of the tie rod. Cut it down in length (so you don't have to find a weird metric female rod end) make and aluminum sleeve for adjustment. Then run a half inch rod end for street use. It will be over kill but it will be safe. If you will make a custom steering arm that can mount the rod end in double shear you can run a 7/16. My race car is going to weigh 1500lbs and I am using 3/8 mounted in double shear. Should be adequate.

There is no reason to do this on the street as you can use the turbo tie rods. You are not trying to get rid of the bumpsteer because your car will not be that low on the street. I really don't like the way ERP does their stuff. It may be fine from a weekend track racers point but it definitely isn't a well engineered product.