The arm appears fine aside from dissolved bushings. Can I just replace the bushings and avoid paying $90 for the MOOG? Beck Arnley bushings are $7 a piece from Advance. The top and bottom are the same part # right? You can lift up and down on the arm with about 2 inches of play. Definitely wont be driving like this until I fix it.

 

I had the same debate in my mind but just ended up paying about $50 for a new Beck Arnley idler arm.

 

Think Ill buy the bushings after some searching. Maybe even build a small heat shield.

 

That's what I did.

 

When I pulled the joint from the hinge all I saw was blue crumbles everywhere. The bottom bushing seems fine, but Ill replace it anyway. The heat shield was missing on the original manifold so no telling if it was heat exposure that killed it.

 

I always replace the idler arm as a unit and here's why. yes, the bushings go bad first from the heat of the exhaust and cause a rattle. But, i also believe that the spherical joint that bolts to the center link is probably worn and should be replaced as well.

 

Rockauto have the Moog arms clearance for like $17 if I'm reading correctly?

 

I'm seeing $26, and $35 after shipping (to Georgia), but I am jumping on it. Only 3 left!

 

Ah I must of had my currency set to £, as im based in the uk! Either way, still cheap! Haha

 

I'm also seeing $26 for the Moog from RockAuto.

So much beefier than stock, worth the investment IMO.

 

If you don't jump on the moog arm (which I've heard really good things about) the stock bushings should do the job. The ones on mine were completely gone that I didn't know I needed 2 of them. I replaced mine 6 years ago with Beck arney from advance and they are not showing any sign of wear yet... But if you have the money I would go with moog

 

I agree if you can afford the upgrade get the moog arm. Its an awesome part with damn good longetivity. I've used the same one on 2 vehicles :p

 

Mine came in today. Was in a Carquest box, but Moog part.

Yesterday there was only one $26 one left on Rockauto.

 

I got a Moog at $26 when there were 13 left. I should have gotten another for a friend.

 

Wish these fit RHD cars!