Tie Rod and ends...
 

I agree with the Standards...However I think they left one type of assembly out of the equation.

The one I have, I believe is a second generation as far as the Spindle Connecting Rod (tie rod) ends are concerned.

The rod itself has a weld line the entire length of the rod except for the threaded ends.

Just when Ford went from this welded type rod to the rod with no weld is unknown at this time.

However what makes this assembly a "second generation" concerns the ends that are threaded onto the rod.

The Standards are specific in that it says "The tie rod clamp bolts faced the rear of the vehicle". That is a true statement...However, what I think is the "second generation" are ends where the clamp bolts are lined up withthe screw-on grease zerk, which by the way is in a different position that the third generation ends...See Dan's photo.

This being the case, we thus have 4 types, or generations of Spindle Connecting Rod (tie rod) Ends and not three as the Standards say.

Actually there are five with noteable differences.

Would anyone know about the "second generation" ends and when were they in production?

I need some photos of the first (no grease zerks) and fourth (press-in zerks)...anyone.

Thanks.

Pluck

Re: Tie Rod and ends...
 

Here's the photo from Pluck.