Back n the early 70's Roy Johnson had a 71 Challenger that he ran in IHRA and NHRA SS. He took the stock tie rod drag link, cut/sectioned it about 2 inches in from the inside hole. He then welded on 2 plates made from 1/4 inch steel. One on top and one on bottom. He then welded the cut piece of the tube and gained about 5 inches to the rear. This moved the center section of the tie rod to the rear of the oil pan, back close to the trans bell housing. He avoided the tie rod tube thru the oil pan with this set up. I always thought it looked unsafe. But he ran that car for many years with that same drag link on it.
Hope this helps.