Need to find new supplier/manufacturer of this part 1

[jpyeck]

I apologize in advance for posting a blatantly off-topic request for help here, but I'm at a loss for where else to go.

We bought some samples quantities of this in-line, male-male ball joint.

http://midwestcontrol.com/photos/large/190.jpg

Now that we have proven the product, we issued the engineering change and voila! The supplier does not have any more of these available, and the lead time is 18 WEEKS!

I cannot believe this is not a commodity item, available elsewhere, but I am unable to find a supplier. Hence my request here.

Any and all input is greatly appreciated!

 

[MadMango]

I'm not sure if you will find something exactly like you want, but I know McMaster-Carr has these in their catalog. Search their site for "in-line ball joint linkages".

"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."

Have you read faq731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[jpyeck]

MadMango,

Thanks for your reply!

We tried the linkages available through McMaster-Carr initially. They have substantial end play (due to the ball being retained by an internal spring clip, not swaged) that is not acceptable in our application.

Star for you for responding quickly.