Author Topic: Idler arm sloppy  (Read 901 times)

Thomasso

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Idler arm sloppy
« on: August 30, 2018, 10:41:16 AM »
I'm sure this has been discussed many times but I can't find much.  Are oversize idler arm bushings available?  And has anyone come up with an alternate fix.  55 Bermuda.  Thank you.
- 55 Willys Bermuda - 57 Ford E-CODE Sunliner - 63 Riveria - 97 Chev K10 - 99 Ford Lightening - 04 jag VDP - 1998 Jag XK8. 07 Lincoln - 08 Taurus X. All old like me.

MarkH

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #1 on: August 30, 2018, 09:25:21 PM »
They do come in different sizes, maybe 3 or 4 total in the early parts book. If I remember right, the size can be identified by the number of grooves cut around the hex end.
You might need to consult the '54 Parts Supplement to identify yours and what may have been available.
I've seen them turn up but not very often.

You might try these guys for a complete arm, maybe the bushing...……… after you identify your part numbers.

http://yesteryearautoparts.com/YAAP/Home.html
http://northwesternautosupply.com/
http://www.thejeepsterman.com/
http://www.debellajeepparts.com/
Fully restored '54 Aero Lark
Rusty '58 Austin Healey 100-Six
Barely running'74 Chevelle Malibu

Thomasso

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #2 on: September 13, 2018, 07:09:34 PM »
Couldn't find any new idler arm parts.  Bit the bullet and redesigned the whole thing,now have opposed tapered roller bearings with a preload, no play.  If anyone would like details let me know. Tom.
- 55 Willys Bermuda - 57 Ford E-CODE Sunliner - 63 Riveria - 97 Chev K10 - 99 Ford Lightening - 04 jag VDP - 1998 Jag XK8. 07 Lincoln - 08 Taurus X. All old like me.

MarkH

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #3 on: September 13, 2018, 08:58:19 PM »
That sounds like it's much better than stock!
Fully restored '54 Aero Lark
Rusty '58 Austin Healey 100-Six
Barely running'74 Chevelle Malibu

Thomasso

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #4 on: September 15, 2018, 03:19:41 PM »
Hi;  Just took "Sweet Wllie" for a drive.  He's a brand new car, no more sawing on the wheel, even stops straighter.  Now for for a fresh alignment. I of course have original specs,  but what specs should I use with radial tires.    Thanks.
- 55 Willys Bermuda - 57 Ford E-CODE Sunliner - 63 Riveria - 97 Chev K10 - 99 Ford Lightening - 04 jag VDP - 1998 Jag XK8. 07 Lincoln - 08 Taurus X. All old like me.

joefrazer

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #5 on: September 15, 2018, 05:06:21 PM »
Like the car...love the luggage rack!!

Thomasso

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #6 on: September 16, 2018, 06:29:58 PM »
Thought you might like to see Willie with his luggage on.  Everyone loves "Sweet Willie" and wants pictures with or of him.  99% have no idea of what he is.  All original survivor, had been stored since 69 when I got him a few years ago.  Going to Wally World.  Thanks
- 55 Willys Bermuda - 57 Ford E-CODE Sunliner - 63 Riveria - 97 Chev K10 - 99 Ford Lightening - 04 jag VDP - 1998 Jag XK8. 07 Lincoln - 08 Taurus X. All old like me.

MarkH

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Re: Idler arm sloppy
« Reply #7 on: September 16, 2018, 10:56:41 PM »
Wow, very nice!
I'm mounting radials and intend to use factory alignment specs, same as it was when I was still driving it & first mounted radials
Fully restored '54 Aero Lark
Rusty '58 Austin Healey 100-Six
Barely running'74 Chevelle Malibu