oldcarmark (8/16/2013)
Hi Paul! I posted the question on the technical the other day and regarding how much vertical play there should be in the idler arm.About 1/8 inch max.You shouldn't be able to move it up and down by hand more than 1/8 inch.I have about 1/2 inch play.With the weight on the wheels the linkage moves without moving the wheels until the slack in the idler arm is taken up.Very noticeable when driving straight.Dead spot in the centre.I had the alignment done on Monday and the Mechanic said it just needs the bushings replaced.Chevrolet used the same type of idler in theirs and he has owned a bunch over the years.If you look at Ebay item # 190648905331 that's the bushings.I ordered 2 from Joblot and 2 seals.Bushings are $4.00 each and the seals $2.00.Part # MB 3356 Bushing and A 3359 Seals.You should check your idler arm as the play might not be in the box at all.Mark, you,r on right track, my only suggestion is the bushes are the same as a nut rotating on a bolt and hence i think you could share the wear between both, so would be better to replace idler arm assy to rule out any wear on the idler shaft threads also.
AussieBill YYYY Forever Y Block YYYY Down Under, Australia