steering linkage with mixed components....

[im4darush]

I have a 72 c10 that I am upgrading to 73+ suspension. Using 73+ drop spindles, 73+ control arms. I know the tie rod sizes are the same and I can replace the outer ends with 73+ Specific ball joints. If I wanted to replace both outer and inner with stock 72 center link, is it safe to say I need 72 specific inner ball joints, and 73+ outer? Same sleeve as both are 11/16?
Posted via Mobile Device

[lolife99]

Originally Posted by im4darush

I have a 72 c10 that I am upgrading to 73+ suspension. Using 73+ drop spindles, 73+ control arms. I know the tie rod sizes are the same and I can replace the outer ends with 73+ Specific ball joints. If I wanted to replace both outer and inner with stock 72 center link, is it safe to say I need 72 specific inner ball joints, and 73+ outer? Same sleeve as both are 11/16?
Posted via Mobile Device

You are correct.
71-72 center link
71-72 inner tie rod
71-87 11/16" adjusting sleeve
73-87 outer tie rod
73-87 spindle

(You said inner ball joint,... but I'm sure you meant inner tie rod)

[im4darush]

Yes I did. Thanks for confirming!
Posted via Mobile Device

[68shortfleet]

I did the 73+ control arm conversion also. I don't care for the metal control arm bushings of the pre 72 stuff. I also used energy suspension bushings in everything. The only rubber bushings left in my truck are the motor mounts and core support bushings.
When I did mine, I just did everything 73+, including the centerlink, inner tie rods, idler arm and pitman arm.
Now, there is no guessing what I have in the future, it is all 73+.

If you are installing 73+ control arms, consider re-drilling the mounting hole in the lower shaft to move them forward 1/2". The alignment numbers come out a lot better without needing a large stagger in the shim pack of the upper control arms.