Tie Rods

[DWMOONEY]

Restoring a 1931 Model A Coupe, my first. I have seen in the catalogs the tie Rod kits with Teflon seats and impregnated bronze. Can you tell me for the money which way to go? Thanks

[rocket1]

I see nobody responded,there have been many so called aftermarket improvements on Model A's.I'm wondering how long the teflon will last especially if the balls have not been replaced,if the existing balls are worn they could chew up the teflon.I think the impregnated bronze seats would last longer.My opinion.

[Mitch//pa]

I use the original set up when doing front end work...I have seen the Teflon wear and that's with a smooth ball and keeping it greased..

[kenparker]

The Teflon seats don't do much good if your balls are worn egg shaped. Also if the ball are rough the Teflon will wear very fast. Now! With new balls and the spring adjusted to correct tighteness, the Teflon seats do make the car/truck easier ti steer. Well worth the $$$. ken

[Robert/Texas]

I have teflon seats on the tie rod and drag link ends on my '34 roadster and my two '28 Model A's. They have been on the cars for many years and all of the balls are in good shape and I do grease them regularly. They really make the steering must easier and especially helpful for this 81 year old.

[tbirdtbird]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

forget the teflon, use original type metal cups, and if you want easier steering get the shorter pitman arm from the suppliers, you'll think you have power steering

and if you are new to Model As, then beware some of the vendors; they are NOT all equal.

Search around on this forum and you will see how the voting has shaped up

[Patrick L.]

I've read many responses here in the past voting for the teflon replacements. But, I prefer to use the original type. jmo.

[k24556]

I'm at the point of disassembling the tie rods, getting the ball part out is where i'm stopped. I have the cotter pin out and the end cap unscrewed. I expected the ball to come out easily, but it does not. is there a secret?

[Patrick L.]

Originally Posted by k24556

I'm at the point of disassembling the tie rods, getting the ball part out is where i'm stopped. I have the cotter pin out and the end cap unscrewed. I expected the ball to come out easily, but it does not. is there a secret?

The ball does not come out, its part of the steering arm.
Wheels off the ground
Once end cap is removed, the spring and cup may need to be persuaded to come loose. There is no secret, just pry them out. Then pull/pry the tie rod off the ball.