95PhoRunner

Looks like I need to replace my idler arm. I've done some looking around on hear and see that the moog arm is good. I checked autozone and they have a duralast idler arm with a lifetime warranty for about $37. Is there a big difference in quality? I want replace it this weekend. Do I need to apply grease to the arm after installation? Should I grease anything else while I'm down there? From what I've read I don't need to jack the car up right?

Thanks

Resto-noob

iTrader: (3)

I've used Moog parts in the past and their quality was quite good, especially in comparison to stock parts. It'll probably last longer than the Duralast...I have never been impressed with Autozone's stuff. But that's just my opinion.

Can't help you with the instructions, but someone else will surely help out.

peow130

Is yours bent?
If not, just replace the bushings, it'll last longer than the moog or duralast ones..

95PhoRunner

I'm not certain if it's bent or not. I've had the truck for a month and when I was getting an alignment they were unable to adjust the left side. They said there was too much play in the idler arm.

peow130

go look at the arm itself, if the thing looks bent, then it probably is.
It's most likely the idler arm bushings though, as those are the first to go in the idler arm.

95PhoRunner

ok I took a look at the idler arm. It doesn't look bent but it could be slightly bent...I dont' know. I wish i was better at looking at these things. But it sounds like just replacing the bushings inside will get rid of that extra play in the steering wheel?

Could this extra play in the idler arm explain the alignment shop not being able to correct the alignment on the left side? I can post the numbers from the alignment if that will help.

Thanks

Jay351

9x out of 10 its the bushings. $10 from the dealer.

No other aftermarket idler arms are stronger than the stocker. Try and find an old downey brace and you will have a good setup. The only better way is the TC arm!

95PhoRunner

Newb here...what is a TC arm?

Does the car have to be jacked up in order to change out the bushings/idler arm

OutlawMike

Total Chaos Caddy Idler Arm

It is a $300 plus bolt in replacement that is bulletproof. Welded assembly, superstout with replaceable bearings, if the bearings ever do wear out.

Jay351

total chaos idler arm. bout $350... never worry about it again hehe!

No it doesnt.

Just crank the wheels all the way to the right and you have clearance.

95PhoRunner

That is a little more cheddar than the wifey will authorize at this time. I've already spent a pretty penny on regular maintenance things getting it ready for daily use. I will replace the bushings over the weekend and post pics.

Do ya'll think that will correct the alignment issue?

Jay351

Yes.

Check for play in the wheelbearings and TRE's Grease your ball joints while youre in there too!

sb5walker

ROFLAO

Hope you don't mind, gonna be using that one, hehe.

95PhoRunner

My pleasure! Just give the phorunner credit the first three times you use it then its yours forever.

I'll make sure I grease everything! Thanks guys.

desertcamper67

Front end work is always easier with the vehicle jacked up. At least the right tire should be off the ground but it can be done on the ground. Its easier to line things back up with at least one side not resisting you.

Just my opinion.

Jay351

I found it easier with the truck on the ground. I could muck around with the steering and it didnt move around on me. Made lining things up easy.

freddy

Did yours looks like mine?
idlerarm003.jpg?t=1230671220