Heim Joints
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Posting Guru
Joined: Nov 2007
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From: Long Island, NY
Heim Joints
How would you use a heim joint on the front end of a truck? The tie rod ends have a tapered bolt that goes through the pitman arm, steering knuckles etc. etc. Would you drill out the taper for a bolt or do they have tapered bolts for use with heim joints? Links to web sites that sell good heim joints would be appreciated.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
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From: Joppa, Maryland
5/8 minimum, I'd drill it out to 3/4. A 5/8 bolt fits and will work without drilling it out on an 89 d60 I know for sure (the front of my Bronco), but while it works and isn't necessarily unsafe there is the tiniest amount of play. I'm going to drill mine out whenever I get around to it, already have the 3/4 heims, just haven't had a chance to do it. Also haven't been able to find a 3/4" bit at any of the local stores, but haven't looked too hard either.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 8,147
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From: Joppa, Maryland
I can't remember the exact size of mine, but I believe it was 1.25 OD and small enough ID that it could be tapped for a 3/4 thread (3/4x3/4 heims, one LH and one RH thread, obviously). I think the specifics are in my D60 swap thread. Chromoly tubing too, if you go with DOM then something a little bigger with weld in bungs will work a little better strength wise.
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Joined: May 2006
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From: North Dakota
Paul, use a "Uni-bit" it will drill the required 3/4 inch hole easily.
I wouldn't go any smaller than a 3/4 hem. Grade 8 bolts is where its at.
I wouldn't go any smaller than a 3/4 hem. Grade 8 bolts is where its at.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2006
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From: Across from the neighbors
I have TREs on my crew but i used 1.5" OD 1/4" wall DOM. I really wouldny use heims on a truck with alot of street use.
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Thread Starter
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Posting Guru
Joined: Nov 2007
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From: Long Island, NY
TRE's ?????
