There will be one V shaped notch in the bottom perimeter/outer edge of each ball joint. The notch will be visible from under the control arm and should be pointing toward the center line of the control arm/center of the car (please confirm the EXACT index in a FSM if they are off). It indexes the ball joint to the proper position since the ball joint is of an offset design. Look closely at the ball joint boot and you may be able to see that one part of the boot is compressed more than the other as the stud coming out of the joint pivots.

You may wish to try taking some weight off of the ball joint by putting a jack stand under the control arm close to the ball joint, disconnect the tie rod from the steering knuckle and rotating the ball joint to detect any binding in the strut, ball joint or strut mount as the ball joint pivots. If you do this watch the movement of the strut and ball joint. The off-center movement will be rather visible.

The self locking nut on the tie rod should be replaced if it is disconnected.

Also, is there any one in your area that has a car that is known not to pull that would let you try their tires and rims?

Good luck and keep us posted!

P.S. Nice car, have read many of your posts.

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"Rudeness is a weak man's imitation of strength" - Eric Hoffer