'69 tie rod sleeves/tubes availability

[Shannon Burgess]

Does anyone know if the tie rod sleeves/tubes are still available from GM? If so, what the current part number is? The ones on my car have some significant corrosion down inside on the threads, and I cannot get enough adjustment on the tie rod ends to get a good alignment.

I know that they are available from the major Corvette vendors, but I'd like to avoid paying another UPS shipping charge if I can just drive a mile down the road and pick them up locally.

Thanks in advance, Shannon

[Joe L.]

Re: '69 tie rod sleeves/tubes availability

Shannan-----

Yes, the tie rod sleeves are still available under the original part number of GM #3826816. They are not inexpensive, though. Current GM list price is $22.77/each.

[Shannon Burgess]

Re: '69 tie rod sleeves/tubes availability

Thanks Joe! Even at that list price I'll save money buying locally versus paying shipping on a pair. I'll be on the horn to the local dealer first thing tomorrow.

And, by the way, thanks for all the information you provide to all the different questions here on the board. I've benefitted quite often from the answers you've given to others here on the board.

Shannon

[Chuck S.]

Re: '69 tie rod sleeves/tubes availability

Joe, my experience is that contemporary GM replacement sleeves are slightly different in configuration from the original production sleeves.

If I remember correctly, my original 70 sleeves have a shallow groove near one chamfered end, while the current service replacements are missing the groove. I don't know if this difference is discovered in judging or not. If you're particular, the best bet might be to find used original sleeves in good condition...that was my choice.

[Tracy C.]

Re: '69 tie rod sleeves/tubes availability

Shannon,

I know we love instant gratification, but if any other passenger cars use these pieces (Joe would know) I'd wait on them to show up on eBay. Good greasy originals sell around 5-10 for the pair.

Soak these babies in carb cleaner and your there....

Save your money for the shiny stuff

tc