Personally I like using 1/4" dowels, and always use thread and thin CA for the wrapping. It also strengthens them a lot to "trench" the wood where the pushrod lays in, instead of just attaching it to the side. I'll use balsa pushrods on smaller airplanes where weight is critical.

I've also used zip-ties for attachment...this is quick, but if you take this short cut...it is IMPERITIVE that the wood is "trenched" or grooved, and I still use thin CA for extra security

Here's a pic:

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/TipsTr...shrodbuild.jpg