Center drag link question?

[cris well]

Hi. I have a 68 C10 short bed that's been converted to 5-lug disc-brakes with factory parts from a 71-72 C10.

For whatever reason, the previous owner didn't change the center drag link (still from the 68) and the outer tie-rod ends are too small for the 71-72 spindles and it keeps eating the rubber boots up because it slips too far up into the hole for the 71-72 spindles.

I know about the specialty tie-rod sleeves that allow 68 outers for inners, and 71-72 outer tie-rod ends to correct it and I'm gonna do it in a couple of weeks most likely.

However, my main question is -Would the mis-matched parts cause the steering radius to be way too much- meaning that when I try to turn it, it seems that I should have a much tighter turning radius than I do. It seems almost like I only have half or 2/3s of lock to lock steering that I should have.

I did unhook the center drag link from the steering box and turn the wheel one turn and reconnected the center drag and it helped somewhat but it still doesn't seem right to me. It's like I can't park it in a parking space without swinging it real wide like a long-bed extended cab or something, HaHa.

[Richard]

Point A to point B is what is important. How you get there matters but if sound it does not matter. The length of the links is what I am referring to. Think the only thing that is of concern to you is if the center link is a different length than the newer 71-72. Even then it should only affect bump steer as turning radius should be the same if alignment is correct.

[sambrutay]

Some TRW / MOOG part #'s i copied back in the day for reference.

[KQQL IT]

Check that the center link isn't in backwards.
It will create some weird geometry issues.

[Accelo]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Check that the center link isn't in backwards.
It will create some weird geometry issues.

Very common issue, your description matches my experience. Hard over does it take more power to turn than you think it should, then the link is backwards.

Their is a thread adapter that connects the two style rod ends. Different threads on each end.
How can I can remember how it's assembled? Simple "nuts in front".

Here is a link where it's discussed in detail.
https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...forward+cheers

I had mine aligned twice and they didn't find it and they drove it.

[cris well]

I'll check to see if the center drag is in backwards. It is not hard to turn, I can basically turn it with my pinky.

It seems to me that the wheels will only go to about a 45% angle from the center point in either direction before it bottoms out and it should go to 65 or 70 degrees I would think.

Thanks to all for the help.

[cris well]

Sorry for my last post.

I meant 135% to the left and 45% to the right. I think I should get 150-155% to the left and 30-25% to the right.

[Accelo]

Are the retaining nuts installed on the front of the center-link?
if the link is turned all bets are off as it really messes with the steering geometry.
You will not have any issues with adjustment with the adapter sleeves installed.
The length is the same, only the taper is different.
Cheers