[Railroadman]

When stuff just happens, I can deal with it. When it's something I know better and F something up just from being a dumbazz, it is hard to take.

1. When I had the lower control arms ('66, 3/4 ton) blasted years ago, they went ahead and sprayed a thick primer on it. They didn't mask the threads. I managed to get them pretty well cleaned out using a Bernzo, sharp objects and a wire brush.

2. I got all new end nuts (bushings) and test fit them. They started in ok, had some resistance from residue but should have no problem.

3. Had a stretch where every time I'd start working on it, something would call me away. Eventually had 3 of the 4 on, and was ready for the last one. The next night I had about 5 minutes to "play" and wanted to at least get that crossed off the list. Went out and started cranking with the 3/4 drive ratchet. Like the others, it did fight me a bit. I figured once the threads broke through it would be easy.

4. Instead of THINKING and realizing something was wrong, I kept putting more and more force on it.

So I had NOT gotten the last one started the previous time in the shop, and cross-threaded it as I resumed work. Now I pay the price. Pics below.

The end nut is no big deal, ballpark $15 plus shipping. But I'm thinking the control arm has had the banana. Threads are bad, and the outer surface - which I believe is where the critical interface is - is hacked bad. I'm not seeing lower control arms for a 3/4 ton at Classic or some of the others. What are my best options? Is there a decent source for used parts? What are the thoughts on having this one built up with weld, then re-tapped? What is that, 1 5/8"-16? Can that be accomplished accurately enough?

Thanks for any suggestions. It's an expensive reminder not to rush through something when you're only half paying attention.