Due to everything being worn out, I've removed all my steering linkage for examination on the bench.
I'm trying to determine if my drag link (67 power steering) is still suitable. Threads and tapered holes are fine, factory paint and assembly marks are visible, seems to have correct bends, but there is one issue:
The idler bushing sleeve was solidly rusted to the stud on the drag link. I removed the sleeve but the stud has surface rust and is pitted. My plan is to use a wire wheel until I get down to metal, followed by Evaporust to remove the rust out of the pits, then clean off the black residue, and IF the stud diameter is still close to spec, coat it with grease/antiseize prior to reinstall. Does that sound like a good approach? What should the acceptable diameter be?
I know there's always a tiny clearance between sleeve and stud, otherwise everyone would need to press them on, and I've seen them slip on very nicely. But they get torqued pretty tight to the drag link, so if it doesn't scoot around when in use, would a tiny bit of extra clearance after rust removal really matter?
Any opinions would be welcome! Thanks!
