Vertical link question

[Bob_D]

Greetings,

Rebuilt the left front suspension first ('58 TR3A)-- vertical link threads were shiny and clean, looking like it had just been manufactured yesterday. Slapped on a new lover trunon and put it all back together. Now we are doing the right side, and the vertical link threads are pitted and no matter how much I try to clean the threads, it still has a dark tint to it -- not nice and shiny like the left. When I spin a new trunion, hold the assembly upright and wiggle the trunion there is a little side to side movement.Is this a reasonable way to judge wear? Unfortunately, I don't recall any wiggle on the other side, but I wasn't concerned and it's too late to compare. Any words of wisdom? I'm attaching a photo, but I'm not sure you can see the problem. Finally, if I do need a new vertical link, does anyone know if there is a quality difference between the vendors for this important part? Thanks

PS I really appreaciate all the helpful advice I've received in my short time as a member (and will need in the future)

 

[TR6oldtimer]

Your method to determine wear is appropriate. That said, the problem you are witnessing could be the trunon itself. Some of them were not well made.

When I was in this position on my six, I ordered a new vertical link from Moss ($225) because they have a liberal return policy (and rapid refund) which allowed me to test fit the new trunon. In my case, it was the vertical link that was worn, if not I would have returned it. Oh, by the way, I purchased my trunons from TRF.