Idler Arm

digital · 07-21-09, 12:20 PM

Took the truck into get an alignment, found the Idler Arm is squishy.

Is there a bushing kit for it? Replace the entire arm or is there a factory recall?

toy4xfun · 07-21-09, 03:14 PM

replace the arm.

digital · 07-21-09, 05:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by toy4xfun

replace the arm.

Is there a better aftermarket idler arm that will last longer than OEM?

Here is a picture of it with the brand spankin new 33's

digital · 07-21-09, 06:40 PM

Anyone use this?

1986-1995 Toyota Pickup - Moog Front Steering Idler Arm

Tools R Us · 07-21-09, 08:07 PM

If it's a stock arm, you can just replace the bushings. I never removed the linkage side, only the cap, top nut then the bracket from the frame, install bushings and put it back together.
Idler Arm Maintenance

The bushings are also available in brass, $$$. Bottom of the page.
Welcome to Custom Machining - Specialty Items

Tools R Us · 07-21-09, 08:16 PM

Brass bushings for an aftermarket arm, less$.
SDORI is committed to to finding new and innovative ways to enhance the performance* of 1st and 2nd generation Toyota trucks and

HJ-45CrewCab · 07-21-09, 08:29 PM

Just replace the bushings. I used OEM the last time I had to do it, but would now consider the brass. If your staying IFS, several companies offer idler arm braces/stiffeners to help.

Family 40's · 07-21-09, 09:37 PM

Looks great! What size/kind of tire did you end up going with? 33 12.50 or 10.50? haha you did exactly what I did, and remove that lower bumper piece, Good taste! No Joke looks damn sexy... You have another shot from the side?

-Kyle

digital · 07-21-09, 09:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Family 40's

Looks great! What size/kind of tire did you end up going with? 33 12.50 or 10.50? haha you did exactly what I did, and remove that lower bumper piece, Good taste! No Joke looks damn sexy... You have another shot from the side?

-Kyle

Thanks bud! I ended up with 33x10.50's on 15x7's, here is a side shot. Which size shackles should I get for the rear? 2" longer than stock?

digital · 07-21-09, 09:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tools R Us

If it's a stock arm, you can just replace the bushings. I never removed the linkage side, only the cap, top nut then the bracket from the frame, install bushings and put it back together.
Idler Arm Maintenance

The bushings are also available in brass, $$$. Bottom of the page.
Welcome to Custom Machining - Specialty Items

Thanks for the info, I'll give the brass bushings a try, I should probably get that grease seal in there while I'm at it.

Appreciate it!

Family 40's · 07-21-09, 09:50 PM

I like that a lot props on a clean truck. Thanks for the side shot/Quick reply! Mine used to be that clean but 6 years in ND shes seen some better days. I like how your dog is just chilling in the truck. Mine chills too but in the cab... Shes a bit spoiled.

-Kyle

raydouble · 07-21-09, 10:52 PM

Stay OEM, doesn't take much to bend the shaft of the aftermarket ones I've seen. Come to think of it pull it apart and make sure the shaft isn't bent.

digital · 07-22-09, 02:34 PM

After reviewing the posts linked by Tools R Us, (Untitled Document) I bought the McQuay-Norris FA5040Idler Arm from Autozoo. It appears to have the thickest shaft diameter..

Another bonus is that it comes with a Lifetime Warranty, no need to replace the bushings, just keep the old unit in the rig for a spare and replace the entire arm under warranty when needed.

digital · 07-22-09, 02:37 PM

Is anyone else using a gusset or brace on their idler arm similar to the one sold by Downey?

toy4xfun · 07-22-09, 04:10 PM

see there i am a dumb ass. i had no idea you could replace the bushing on those. so digital thanks for not listening to me.

digital · 07-22-09, 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by toy4xfun

see there i am a dumb ass. i had no idea you could replace the bushing on those. so digital thanks for not listening to me.

No worries bud

toy4xfun · 07-22-09, 06:07 PM

and if it were not for guys like you i would always be a dumb ass. i learned something new today.

Rix86 · 07-22-09, 11:34 PM

I've trashed 4 arms now. and bent the suspension mounting horns on the frame......

get an idler arm brace or get the (downey?) "caddy" idler arm, if you're going to any sort of wheeling besides service roads.

digital · 07-23-09, 06:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rix86

I've trashed 4 arms now. and bent the suspension mounting horns on the frame......

get an idler arm brace or get the (downey?) "caddy" idler arm, if you're going to any sort of wheeling besides service roads.

Are you still running IFS? Did you get the brace?

Rix86 · 07-23-09, 07:05 PM

yes and no.
lol
I'll keep putting less-thrashed arms on until I cut all that shit off.
I get worn arms all the time.

ms018kmf · 07-24-09, 08:27 AM

No bends, 18 months to wear out bearings. More expensive than most but the rebuild kit was 35$.

digital · 07-24-09, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rix86

yes and no.
lol
I'll keep putting less-thrashed arms on until I cut all that **** off.
I get worn arms all the time.

Get the idler arm from Autozone, Lifetime warranty, just return the arm when you bend it.

.. ReadUntitled Document it also has the thickest shaft width compared to the other arms.

Rix86 · 07-24-09, 11:07 AM

I can get mine warranteed (1 year unlimited mileage oem part) but.... I don't see the need.

digital · 07-24-09, 02:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rix86

I can get mine warranteed (1 year unlimited mileage oem part) but.... I don't see the need.

right on

Family 40's · 07-24-09, 08:23 PM

I'll measure my shackle size tomorrow, and I'll let you know my exact length. I had the shackles put on in high school but you should yield the same results. Did I mention you truck looks great!

-Kyle

Family 40's · 07-24-09, 08:28 PM

One more thought, if you plan on wheeling your truck in any moderation I would reccommend getting an IFS truss or brace. I got one for my truck since I plan on wheeling the piss out of it and the IFS for another 5 years or more... Professional Flying job pending... You can look up my posts and I have pictures of my truss its pretty sweet, IMO.

-Kyle