Ball Joint For Longer Tie Rod. Porsche 356 50-57  ❭  356040008

Ball Joint For Longer Tie Rod.
Restore the steering precision and integrity of your Porsche 356 with this ball joint, designed for the longer tie rod version. Suited for Porsche 356 models from 1950 to 1957, this ball joint accepts the conus FI10,7 / FI12,2 specification and features a housing thread of M14 × 1.5. Direct-fit for the tie rod end, it provides smooth pivot action, minimal play and dependable steering response. Ideal for restoration projects, returning classic steering geometry to proper specification, or replacing a worn joint.

Fits:

• Porsche 356 1950-55

What This Product Does:

• A ball joint provides a spherical pivot point that allows the tie rod to articulate in multiple directions (as the steering knuckle and linkage move) while maintaining a robust connection.
• In this context, the “longer tie rod” for the 356 uses this ball joint at the end of the tie rod so the linkage can articulate and steer correctly.
• As part of the steering linkage, this ball joint ensures smooth steering movement, correct tie rod/track rod geometry, maintains alignment, and helps transmit steering input to the wheels reliably.
• Because it’s a pivot in the steering linkage, it must minimise play, move freely in all required directions, and handle load (steering forces, road inputs) without excessive wear.

Symptoms Of Wear Or Failure:

• Excessive steering play or looseness, especially front centre or in the tie rod linkage — the ball joint’s socket may have developed excessive clearance.
  
• Clunking or knocking noises from the front when turning the wheel or when going over bumps — a worn ball joint may allow movement that causes noise. General symptoms of worn ball joints: “Clunking or rattling noise… loose or pulling steering… uneven tire wear”
  
• Uneven tyre wear, particularly on the front steer tyres — a worn tie-rod ball joint allows alignment to shift under load.
  
• Steering feel degraded — less precise, vague, perhaps the car doesn’t respond as crisply to steering input.
  
• On inspection: the joint may show torn boot or weathered/aged rubber, corrosion, play when you physically move the tie rod end and check for movement in the ball joint.
• Because this is a component of the 356’s older steering linkage, age-related wear, corrosion or fatigue are likely.

Why Replacement Matters:

• Safety & Steering Precision: The ball joint is a critical link in the steering chain of a 356. A failed joint can compromise steering control, alignment and vehicle stability.
• Alignments & Tyre Life: A worn ball joint allows the tie rod geometry to shift as the vehicle is driven, causing misalignment, tyre wear, and steering problems. Replacing it restores correct geometry tolerance and helps retain proper alignment.
• Restoration & Originality: For a classic Porsche 356, fitting a correct part (356 040 008) ensures the steering system is period-correct and reliable — an important factor for value and performance.
• Prevents further damage: If the ball joint is worn, other components (tie rod, track rod, pitman arm, steering knuckle) may be stressed or move unexpectedly, leading to further wear. Proactive replacement avoids cascading issues.

Related reference numbers
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356040008

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