New Center Tie Rod/Drag Link problems

[Revias]

Got a whole new tie rod assembly (center and outers) from So-Cal Imports to fix my loose center tie rod. "OE Brand" on the box.

https://socalautoparts.com/product/center-tie-rod-super-beetle-draglink/

Outer rods are stiff but they move well enough but the rod ends on the actual center tie rod do not move, like at all. I tried wrapping the stud in a shop rag and prying with my pliers but it did not budge. I can't get them to line up with the idler and pitman arms. When I put one side in the pitman arm, the idler doesn't fit, and vice versa.

Is this normal? Did I get defective material? Shouldn't those joints move at least a little bit? Any tips? Right now I can't muscle it together and I don't want to damage my other components trying to.
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Proud owner of a '72 Super

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[vamram]

um, yeah, that's normal. The center link ends do *not* move. When they do, you'll get the Super shimmy and it's time for a new centerlink. Btw, my OE-brand centerlink for my '72 Super (since sold) lasted less than a year. After that I bought the more expensive one from Topline, which I *think* is German made. No issues after years of driving before selling the car. Have one on my '74 as well.
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'74 Super 9/16 - present, in refurb process.
'73 Super - 6/18 - Present - Daily Driver!
'75 Super Le Grande...waiting it's turn in line behind '74.
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[Revias]