I just bought an '84 GS, and the link (4 or 5 inches long)that goes from the body to the center steering member on the passenger side of the car has some play vertically. The one on the driver's side doesn't have any play (isn't that the one that's driven by the steering gearbox?). Anyway, I was wondering whether to replace the link, or to try to take the slop out of it. Also, do any of you know how difficult it would be to do the work myself. I have access to a hydraulic floor jack, and the necessary support stands. Thanks for your help.

 

That would be the idler arm. The arm contains rubber bushings that are prone to wear... especially on left hand drive models due to the arms proximity to the exhaust.

They're pretty easy to replace. It's simply a matter of disconnecting the arm from the centre link with a puller and unbolting the bracket from the frame rail.

Also, it's best to replace the bushings with urethane items. Hope this helps.

 

Replace it.

 

No need to replace the arm... just the bushings.

 

ditto. i had the same thing but the bushings were GONE. i thought the clanking was badly worn struts. it takes 5sec to replace the two. take the cotterpin out and take off the nut. shabippity bam, you're done.

 

Thanks guys! I have one more question, though. Where would I get good urethane bushings (Nopi doesn't seem to have any on their site)? Thanks again.

 

energy suspension