Steering Ball Connecting Rod (?) cotter pin fell out...

[PSJ]

Hi all, I'm trying to figure out how to re-connect the steering ball connector rod on my 17 Touring (I think this is what it's called but I'm not sure - see pics below). The cotter pin fell out and I'm stumped on where it's supposed to go. The end with the cotter pin holes is just past the fan belt and almost above the timer. I've checked the few reference guides I have but have not found a clear diagram or picture with the answer. Any suggestions, pics or links to a clear diagram would be greatly appreciated!

Jpeg steering ball connecting rod 2 5.14.23.jpg (22.49 KiB) Viewed 1195 times

Jpeg steering ball connecting rod 1 5.14.23.jpg (23.69 KiB) Viewed 1195 times

[Scott_Conger]

that's your timing rod

it goes through the loop on top of the timer and the cotter pin goes in

[PSJ]

Thanks Scott. Appreciate the help!

[TWrenn]

Thanks Scott. Appreciate the help!

Obviously someone either forgot to PUT a pin in, or got careless and didn't "split" the pin...I think this is how the Brit's came up with the name "split pins" for them! They don't normally come out on their own if the pin is "split". Some guys just bend the entire pin as it's so thin it's like why not! Just a thought.

[jiminbartow]

There is a lot of vibration in a T. Even if both tangs are bent in the same direction the pin can work its’ way around and out. Better to split the tangs in two directions. Jim Patrick

[Norman Kling]

In your picture the end which fits to the timer looks like the pin is out. It is possible that when you fully advance the spark, the pin might contact the fan belt. If so, it could eventually knock out the pin. That pin is important because if it is out and the rod comes out of the timer, you could push up the lever thinking you have retarded the spark and then try to start the engine causing the kick to break your hand or arm. An if you have an electric starter, it could break the bendix.
So after you install the pin which can be done by using a long nose pliers to put the pin in and then to bend the two ends in opposite directions. Leave the ends long enough to keep the pin in place, but not long enough to get into the belt. If the rod does hit the belt, you might need a different length belt .
Norm

[Will_Vanderburg]

Cotter key tangs should be split in opposite directions so thet cannot vibrate out.

[PSJ]

Guys, I really appreciate the suggestions and pointers!