[abl1111]

E,

I read, and re-read that. OK, I read it a few more times! It's quite an endeavor. I can visualize 90% of your design. It sounds like it would work for sure. It also sounds a little bit beyond my capabilities.

Which tie rod ends do you have exactly ( I went to the web site you mentioned to try to match the dimensions you gave and couldn't. Why did you get female ends ? I would think that male ends would allow you to go through the riser and attach w/ a nut easier ?

I like the concept of the tie rods. It's clean, strong ( I'm sure much more than needed ) and so far - the best idea I've seen or can think of. Although, I have thought of just using some industrial sized SS hinges, bolted on an angle - through each, to connect the treads to the risers...