Sorry I didn't make it through all your posts to know you had made it so far. Big congtrats!
It's the cheapo rod ends (check the load ratings). I've seen that style fail on race cars- in less demanding/critical points, and they wear quickly. Obviously, they will work for some time, but steering is a no compromise application and no way to learn about failures. Just a suggestion, but I'd swallow the $35 for a good Aurora part. Rod-end washers are a nice/safe addition https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/pr...p?Product=3068