Drag Link To Knuckle System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 RAM Pickup and 2012 RAM Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The late build 4500/5500 steering linkage is a new design but still comprised of a tie rod end (3), tie rod (4), pitman arm (2), drag link (1), and steering damper (5). The new design has the drag link (1) connected between the pitman arm (2) and the knuckle.
The RH tie rod (4) contains a ball stud (1) that extends through the knuckle (5) and the outer end of the drag link (3) with a castle nut (2) on top of the drag link (3). The tie rod ball stud is tapered to match with the knuckle, and the drag link end has a sleeve that is also tapered and extends into the knuckle.