How to fix an LT-1000 tractor steering rod that popped off?

Hello
What is the best way to fix an LT-1000 tractor steering rod that popped off?
Looks like there is a very Small & slim rubber Hold down strap that broke. This would explain why the rod popped off.
The rod has a hole that fits over the ball. See pics.
What is the best way to fix it?

 

Not sur of an easy fix.

Replacement might be easiest solution.

Possibly drill/tap for a bolt??

 

It just needs something so it will not pop off but can move a lot? So let’s see what others have to say?
How about just wrapping a small piece of wire around the base of the ball and then loop it over the rod and then around the base of the ball on the other side??
Is that a red neck fix? Maybe according to this vid!

 

Drill the hole in the rod through, and remove the ball from the arm (it is bolted on). Put a bolt through both and double-nut it so it can pivot but not loosen up.

Or replace it, which is what I did.

 

What parts did you replace?

 

Or just wrap a bungee around it all so it will not fall off.

 

I bought the rod on ebay (new), which included the ball.

 

On this photo, doesn't the metal sleeve slide over the ball to retain it?

 

Zip ties and duct tape!

 

Yes but it is rubber and broken.
How about 1/2” pvc pipe with a radiator clamp for a no welding fix?

 

The rod & ball is fine but the steering link with the hole in the bottom keeps popping off the ball. :-(

 

OK, so we are using different descriptors, but I think we are both talking about the round part, not the flat part. If so, I will change to your terminology. The ball is part of the steering link (round part), it bolts to the flat part.

So I see three options:

1. Replace the link with the ball.
2. Use a bungee cord or something similar to keep them from separating.
3. Remove the ball, drill through the link, replace the ball with a bolt, then a nut, then the link, then a double nut or locknut on top of the link.

 

This will also work.

 

I had something like happen with my JD garden tractor and I had to replace the part with the ball and socket.

 

I like the PVC/hose clamp trick...

 

Me too.
It is not too simple - LOL
At first I scrounge around and found 1/2” Pex but the inside diameter is smaller than PVC ! I never knew that! Why smaller?
Anyway, I had some car water heater hose that was the right inside diameter but when I went over a bad bump it popped off.
Therefore I got the 1/2”diameter 2 foot PVC Home Depot for $1.31 and hose clamps From Harbor Freight 40 assorted for $5.19 I used 5/8” clamp and it fit fine
Cut the pvc on the chop saw and slit it with the pneumatic air grinder. Then slid it on and clamped it down.
So we will see how this works.