Track rod end question

[pfenlon]

Bought 2 new track rod ends, and fitted them today, I was surprised at the difference in the diameter of the replacement ends below the Taper.
The original ends are 12mm diameter, which perfectly fills the hole in the steering arm then a nylon nut AND a washer are used to tighten the end.
The new ends below the taper are 10mm diameter, NO washer. but a nylon nut to hold the taper in place.
I phoned the vendor "Robsport" who said that the track rod end is what they use on all their TR7 cars and they were fine.

It just seems very poor engineering to me, or am I just being too critical.

[rugbyref1]

I must admit i am quite critical myself and try to get OE where I can - I did have a set of track rod ends fitted to one of my cars at S + S Preparations and they offered me the same type that Robsport do (they also said they have not had any problems with them) - however, I sourced some new OE and they happily fitted them.

I can't comment on the difference but probably none other than aesthetic.