C2 Idler Arm

[Richard G.]

I am preparing to change out an aftermarket idler arm to an original style. I was wondering what type of seal, if any, goes between the Steering Relay Rod and the idler arm?
I have circled the area of interest in the picture below:
This is a picture of the aftermarket idler arm currently installed.
Idler arm.jpg

Below is a picture of the end of the replacement idler;

IMG_0972.jpg

The hard plastic washer is all that was included with the idler arm when I received it.
Is there any other sealing part that may be missing.
I can see where this may be a high wear item if this is the only seal and, of course, no grease fitting.

I am including a couple of addition pictures.
IMG_0974.jpg

A detailed picture of the mark in between the bolt holes.
IMG_0973.jpg

This is the first time I have had the thumbnails work for me. I did nothing different that I could tell. Maybe the move to the new server changed something? Or it was just me? I am happy it's working.

Thanks
Rick

[Alan D.]

Re: C2 Idler Arm

Believe the following is correct, older photo. Do not recall seeing any type of marking between holes as you show.
The boot should have some pn 3779190 with a "BAY 54" on it.

[Richard G.]

Re: C2 Idler Arm

I have included a couple more pictures;
Below is a picture of the boot.
It has a 14-165 embossed into it.
IMG_0979.jpg

Here is one of the casting number.


IMG_0980.jpg

It appears yours has a felt seal that I am missing.
I have a piece of felt and I am confident I can make the missing piece.
Makes sense there should be something there.
Thanks Alan, I really appreciated the pictures.
Rick

[Alan D.]

Re: C2 Idler Arm

The felt & plastic washer are available from after market suppliers. (Will probably cost more to ship then the part(s))
My top boot was worn along top so only can see "BAY 5?"
Your number looks correct, 3779185, usually have a GMT preceding #
the "P" I have no comment on since mine were "A" and "B" - guess P was a latter casting.

My info is based upon an original "A" from my Mar64 car and a second "B" part. Looks good to go!
Do not expect anyone to look for the part number ect, even if they do it would be hard to get a deduct.

[Richard G.]

Re: C2 Idler Arm

Alan;
I received a deduction because the replacement had a zerk fitting!
I didn't know about the aftermarket replacement parts.
I made an assumption they would only be available with the idler.
Goes to show, I need to check first, make assumptions later!
I see that LIC has them. I completely missed it. They also have the boot as a separate item.
I have a small order going and have added it to the order.

From the LIC's web site.
WE ARE OPEN > SHIPMENTS ONLY < NO counter/NO pickups at this time.

I plan on painting it black and installing the replacement seal. Should be go to go!
Thanks
Rick

[Daniel Y.]

Re: C2 Idler Arm

if the boot is not damaged reuse it. The one from LIC is not typical for original. it has 4 raised points coming out from it. you can grind them down so iys not too obvious. also if you are replacing the attaching bolts, LIC is course threat. originals are fine thread. . if you still have the old ones - just have them plated black phosphate. or paint them flat black. its hard to tell at a glance

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 Idler Arm

I am preparing to change out an aftermarket idler arm to an original style. I was wondering what type of seal, if any, goes between the Steering Relay Rod and the idler arm?
I have circled the area of interest in the picture below:
This is a picture of the aftermarket idler arm currently installed.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]97418[/ATTACH]

Below is a picture of the end of the replacement idler;

[ATTACH=CONFIG]97415[/ATTACH]

The hard plastic washer is all that was included with the idler arm when I received it.
Is there any other sealing part that may be missing.
I can see where this may be a high wear item if this is the only seal and, of course, no grease fitting.

I am including a couple of addition pictures.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]97416[/ATTACH]

A detailed picture of the mark in between the bolt holes.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]97417[/ATTACH]

This is the first time I have had the thumbnails work for me. I did nothing different that I could tell. Maybe the move to the new server changed something? Or it was just me? I am happy it's working.

Thanks
Rick

Rick-----

These are the parts that go between the relay rod and the idler arm:

The washer was GM #3793578. It appears to be nylon or some other sort of plastic and is a yellowish-white (not that anyone will ever be able to discern its color when installed). It is 1.25" OD, 0.629" ID, and 0.03" thick. It was discontinued without supercession in October, 1992.

DSCN3648.jpg

This is the seal. It was GM #3744796. It is NOT felt or cellulosic material. It is a dark gray, rather dense foam rubber with a "waffle pattern" skin on either side (not that anyone will see much of it when installed). It is 1" OD, 0.58" ID, and 0.25" thick. It was discontinued without supercession in July, 1996.

DSCN3653.jpgDSCN3654.jpgDSCN3655.jpg