Heavypic, that sounds about right on the McMaster Carr Heim joint...

 

Yes, I checked my order history, and that's correct. We site https://www.mcmaster.com


That particular one seemed to have a good balance between durability and economy , but there are more options available. Plus this one had a nice pleasing gold anodized finish!

 

I got mine from here:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heim-Joint-R...490745?vxp=mtr

 

Bought the exact same set. No problems with mine but I figure it's worth taking care of before it becomes a problem.

 

A couple of years ago, I upgraded my shift linkage to a chrome one with flames, and it came with a nice set of heim joints.
It made the shifting so much better and crisper.
However, I made a run on the Kancamagus last fall, and right about sunset, I heard a clunk and ping,
sure enough, looked down and the shift rod was laying on the primary.
The nut was missing on the rear bolt.
I had neglected to use locktite on the nuts, but I thought i had used nylock's, but can't really remember.
Was never so happy that I tossed my old shift shaft in the bags with all the bolts, etc.
Sure, I could have used a zip tie, but felt better using the old rod instead.
10 minute fix, and I was on my way.
Lesson learned, if your bolts don't hold up, the heim joints are no fix on their own.
Also it's a great idea to keep the old parts in the bags, along with some simple tools.
You never know when you might need them.

 

Pics of ebay Heim joints.

 

The shift rod lever attached to trans shaft fell off a week ago and had to replace. Used grade 8 hex bolt, it will not come lose again. Decided to upgrade linkage also. Bought this for $7 and a couple ss button heads at ace hardware. Not sure how long these will last as it is susceptible to dirt and grit getting in the joint. The stock linkage has a nice rubber boot.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271595476180...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

http://www.ebay.com/itm/390127261695...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

.

 

Kuma, Heim.joints are pretty long lasting...I personally have never seen one with a boot, but just like everything else, you get what ya pay for!

 

They certainly wont be over stressed or fatigued. Grit will eventually wear down all moving parts. The ones with a zerk fitting would allow grit to be pushed out and prolong durability. For $3 ea, not concerned, only an observation

 

Yeah, agreed, Kuma, and for that price, you can always carry a few extras in stock!