I need a new idler arm... wtf is this? I've never heard of it before can i put something high perf in or is it not even worth it and i need new lower ball joints

How critical are these parts and any suggestions as to what i should purchase?

 

the new ball joint will make your handling much better. if they are worn, replace them...otherwise they can break and that wont be good. the ball joints attach the spindle (the piece that your rotor/rim rides on) to the lower control arm (this is the triangular piece that attaches to the body) and if they break, well you better hope it's while your car is stopped! the idler arm attaches one end of the steering linkage to the body of your car (the other end hooks to the steering box) When it is worn, the steering will get sloppy. if you are replacing the ball joints/idler arm, you might want to consider also replacing the tie rod ends and centerlink (these make up the rest of your steering linkage) if these parts are worn, or only slightly worn, your steering is sloppy. i also find that replacing only part of the steering linkage will take away from the life of the new parts (the new parts will take extra abuse from the sloppiness you have w/ worn steering parts) there really isnt much along the lines of performance stuff in this area, just dont buy cheap crap. I'd stick w/ Moog stuff, they are reputable and i believe it has a lifetime warranty. and decent parts store should have the stuff. but just to warn you, this stuff is expensive...there are 4 tie rod ends at about $30 each, a centerlink at about $50, 2 balljoints at about $25 and the idler arm for $25-30. you also need 2 sleeves to connect the tierod ends, which are about $10 ea. if you have a friend or a dad thats good w/ repairs, i'd buy the parts and do the job yourself. its not that hard, the worst part is taking all the crap off for the balljoints. you'll also need an alignment when you're done. I hope all this helps!!

rob

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85 Z28- 350, Comp 262, Edelbrock Performer intake, Edelbrock 600 cfm carb and Edelbrock cat back, Summit headers and vette servo
-JVC, Eclipse, Pioneer, MTX, Phoenix Gold, Planet Audio

 

Actually, your idler arm is bolted to the pass. side frame rail. It's the pitman arm that is bolted to the steering box

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85 Berlinetta Iroc exterior NOW 454 powered, 4.10 gears, 275/60/15 Hoosier Quicktimes and a PILE of other goodies..........YES, it's street driven!

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