idler arm questions

[flyboy1400]

I just replaced the idler arm on my 75 duster, the manual states 65ftlbs but that is for the end that goes into the center link...how tight should the bolt/nut holding the other end to the k-member be?

Right now its probably 70-80 ftlbs but thats just a guess. The reason I ask is since i replaced the arm, my steering is a bit stiffer and does not want to return all the way to center after making a turn, it will go most of the way but stops before reaching center, just enough to cause a moderate 'pull' in the direction that i was just turning.

Also, with the front end off the ground (engine off) if i turn the steering wheel and let go the wheels will turn back the other way just a bit, like there's tension pulling it back.

I know it needs to be alligned, as the previous allignment was done with the idler arm worn out. could all this be caused by the allignment being out, or does it sound more like the idler arm is too tight?

one other thought comes to mind...when i tightened the castle nut on the end that goes into the center link, to reach 65 ftlbs it tightened close to 1/4" past the hole for the cotter pin. so the pin is not between any of the notches in the castle nut, but acutaly has some clearance between the nut and the pin? is that normal, should i shim (with washers) the nut down so the cotter pin goes between the notches?

 

[mopardude318]

do not shim it with washers, usually ur supposed to tighten it just a little more if it doesnt line up with the cotter pin hole, until it does. ill get the torque specs for you soon. gotta look in my manual...

 

[player1up]

The new components are always a little tight. Give it a bit to settle in and it should be fine.
An alignment is needed though. If nothing for some peace of mind.
As for the castle nut / cotter pin issue, you can use a washer between the nut and the center link to move the nut closer to the hole... but DO NOT use a washer between the arm and the center link...
I said you can, but that is up to you. Washers can break and fall out = instant steering play. If the nut starts to come loose you will get gradual play until it hits the cotter pin and stops... will either of those things happen? I've seen both, but only once each in 20 yrs
Mopardude318, I think he is worried that the nut can come undone by a couple of threads before the cotter pin will touch the top of the nut and keep it from turning.
Flyboy, Is that correct?

 

[flyboy1400]

Hey thanks for the replies guys!

I think he is worried that the nut can come undone by a couple of threads before the cotter pin will touch the top of the nut and keep it from turning.
Flyboy, Is that correct?

Yeah, thats exactly what i was thinking. When i removed the old idler arm, that had happened. The center link was resting on the nut, with clearance between the center link and idler arm.

Between that clearance and the slop in the idler arm to frame joint, i could turn the passenger tire about an inch before the driver side tire would move!