Idler Arm Question

[terryk]

I have to replace my idler arm. The manuals says to thread the nut until the distance from the top of the arm to the first hole is 2-11/32".

Neither the GM or the NAPA replacement are adjustable and they are 1/8" to 1/4" too long (depending on where you measure it.)

I understand that the toe geometery can change, but I'm not sure where to go from here.

What have you folks done?

Terry

 

[terryk]

ttt

 

[salvageV6]

I've got a Perfect Circle or some such one at home I can measure for you if I ever get there.

Not sure but I don't think it's adjustable either.

 

[Bruce Davis]

The idler arm is not adjustable on regals, front wheel drive rivieras are. Brake the idler arm loose from the center link first then take the 2 bolts out.

 

[terryk]

Sooo......

The 86 service manual in the section "Steering Linkage - B & G Series "page 3B6-4 under Installation says "adjust it per Figure 3B6-5". 2-11/32" +/- 1/6" 1/6"? Maybe the one faded.

I stopped at the dealer and looked at the factory replacement (for $71). It's adjustable and includes paperwork discussing the adjustment.

I can see where if the pitman and idler aren't in the same plane the toe geometry will change over the steering wheel range and the cross link might bind but how much from a 1/4" difference I don't know.

I think the fact that no one has replied "OH MY GOD, YOU HAVE TO ADJUST IT OR YOU WILL DIE!!!!!" tells me that the difference probably doesn't matter....or the people that didn't adjust it are dead and can't respond.

 

[tc86gn]

I personally don't think it is that critical. That is probably why you can't hardly find one that is adjustable. It is gonna effect toe in no matter how you go so that means a trip to the alignment shop anyway.Just my opinion.

 

[salvageV6]

After reading about it again I would think the thickness of the aftermarket boss in relation to the ball joint might make a difference and perhaps was taken into account for the aftermarket ones.

Didn't find or measure mine yet. Prolly tomorrow.

I doubt a 1/4" will matter much. I hope there aren't a lot of dead idler arm replacers buried out there......

If mine isn't within 1/4" I will prolly just go with the GM part. $$$

 

[salvageV6]

I measured the Perfect Circle, made in the USA, one and got 2 3/4" to the top of the arm from the center of the bolt hole.

It is about a 1/4" shorter to the top of the casting housing for the ball joint.

Gotta check the manual again to see if you are supposed to measure to the housing or the arm part that sticks out.