Thanks all. That's a good suggestion to look the brand-name up in my Grainger catalog and look for other dealers John, I'll probably save some money that way.
Frank, I did see heim joints on McMaster's website in the price range you mention but their descriptions (brass, plastic and bronze races, etc.) lead me to believe they're not suitable for this particular use. It looks like the expensive stuff is what's needed here.
And Blaine heheh, no doubt I'd be in the poor house or my daughter would have to elope next summer instead of getting her dream wedding if I started buying heims and rods like those!
