Do you need to disconnect the idler arm from the center link to replace the bushings? I haven't done it yet, but it looks like you can just remove the 2 bolts holding on the bracket, pull the bracket off and put it back with new bushings. Is this true?

I always hate removing ball joints, tie rod ends, etc if I'm not replacing them. I feel like I'm breaking them or at least hastening their downfall.

 

That's a defnite posibility. That's what's so great about this forum, so many minds can come up with some of the simplest solutions. By going that method, it would preserve the integrity of the joint and boot.

 

this needs to be archived or stickied

 

i am having similar trouble with my 85 GSL. i'll replace the whole thing. i have it to pick up from napa tomorrow(on order). the steering is bad. there is nothing when you turn the wheel and then its all there and you're flying over into oncoming traffic. bad news gentleman.

 

LOL I noticed today mine was compleatly loose. Ordered the new parts this evening. I might take a pictures or two when I get mine in for the thread.

 

Just for everybody's information, that same part is available from www.rockauto.com for quite a bit less $$$.

I'm glad I saw this thread when I did, because I was trying to figure out why one of my spare idler arms looked totally different from the other. Now I know, and now I know which one to use...

In this pic, you can really see the difference in "beefiness".