The one in my 52' has a pretty good arc to it like someone tried to jack the truck up with it.

 

It should be straight. Good luck.

 

I figured as much.. As is there is no way to adjust the tow without the adjustment sleeve hitting the springs. For now I am going to try and straighten it, and order a fresh one

 

Mine was slightly bent and I just straightened it for now. I will order the heavy duty one from Mid-Fifties. Good luck.

 

96xl , have a straight tie rod if you are interested . Send a PM if you need an original .Thanks , Denny

 

When I had a tranny snafu I had to tow my truck a mile home. Was in a hurry and threw the tow strap over the front axle, and yes, the tie rod. Bent my nice new Classic Haulers HD tie rod. I spent about an hour slowly straightening it back out. Frustrating but can be done. (mostly)

 

Mine was a bit bent also. I didn't want to take a chance on straightening it. It is too important a part so I just replaced it.

 

I think I hold the record for bent tie rods...

 

You win Joe! That wasn't drivable though?

 

I never tried to drive it with that tie rod in it. It still had no brakes and widow makers at that time. I got a perfectly straight tie rod from Wayne 52 Merc and refurbed it long before I ever drove my truck.