Matt16

The shaft diameter at the lower idler arm bushing has been reduced by corrosion and wear. Its probably 1/16" smaller in diameter than the top of the shaft.

Is there any point to getting an idler arm from a wrecker, or are they all going to look like that after 13-22 years?

stoicheg2

i would say stay away from used idler arms. the bushings in mine went bad but i just said F it. instead of buying $5 replacement bushings i bought a new one from napa for $75.

it also depends on which part of the country you live in. I'm in cali and i have virtually no rust/corrosion on any of my interior/exterior

if you buy a used one... i think it would be pretty hard to tell if the ball joint were bad by just wiggling it in your hand

Matt16

I want an OEM idler so I can brace it with a Downey brace. You do bring up a good point, my balljoint on the idler arm is shot as well.

Alex 400

I got one from the local auto parts store, and it looked exactly the same as my stock one just with new bushings and a new ball joint.

sheez, i should probably get one of those too.

4banginRunner

i got mine from the junkyard...wasnt wasting money on a new one when a SAS is in the near future for me

but then again i lucked out n found a 4runner with a blown 3.0 in the boneyard with a "new" greaseable idler are/ pitman arm and new steering box (receipts in the glove box said they were 6months old

vwfastg60

bronze bushing upgrade yours.

Matt16

Going to the bone yard to pic up the idler, a front tow hook and god know what else. Love that place.

Matt16

Back already. I got a practically new looking one for $40