Steering Install Help

[Mr.SpeedFreak]

Hey guys, I'm trying to get my steering links installed but it's been so long since it was together I'm having a brainfade reassembling it all.

First question is what order should the hardware be in for the idler arm in the k frame? I was told to only use one washer but the arm is loose in the k frame so I'm guessing the washer goes "inside" with the foam spacers? As it sits now I have the bolt coming down from on top, then washer, then only the 2 foam spacers inside, and nut underneath.



Second question is should the "bow" in the center link face towards the front or rear of the car? Basically "is mine on backwards?"



I'm sure these are some noob questions but thanks ahead of time for bearing with me
ccasion14:

 

[twinscrew698]

I would say it goes towards the back.
I would think it would hit the oil pan if not.

 

[Mr.SpeedFreak]

Yeah that's what I was thinking, just wasn't sure. I really need to get a service manual haha

 

[65hemi]

Yes, the link is on backwards. There is a front and and back. The "bow" goes to the back, so it does not hit the oil. However, I think there may also be a top and a bottom. Lay the link on a flat surface and see if there is a bow to it. Unfortunately I cannot remember if the bow goes up or down. I marked the top and bottom when I took mine off and then reinstalled per the marks.

 

[Mr.SpeedFreak]

Yeah it does have a "drop" to it where the bow is so it would make sense it would have a top and bottom.. so I guess that's question #3 haha :thinker:

If anyone has pictures of their idler arm installed and of the center link, that'd be a huge help. Or an exploded picture from the service manual. All I have to go on are pictures of the front end when I bought the car, with steering thrown together by the previous owner (probably wrong)

 

[MNBiker]

As far as top and bottom, it can only go on one way due to the taper of the holes. Yes, the bow goes to the rear.

 

[65hemi]

Ahh, yes. Right, the taper of the holes will control top & bottom.

 

[Mr.SpeedFreak]

Thanks guys, that's 2 questions down. Anyone have input on the idler arm?

 

[MNBiker]

Not for sure, the picture looks like the ears on the K frame are spread apart some. Thinking once it is tightened down the ears will bend back and clamp the idler in place. Don't think there would be washers between the idler and K frame. Not 100% sure though.

 

[Cornpatch MO]

As far as top and bottom, it can only go on one way due to the taper of the holes. Yes, the bow goes to the rear.

Had me wondering about my pan clearance problem. I thought there was only one way to install the drag link, but my Dodge just went to the painters and my service manual with it. Thanks............................MO

 

[65hemi]

Mr. SF, as mentioned, the mounting bracket "ears" on the k frame seem wide, but should pull in. The idler arm should have a sleeve through the middle. The foam washers go on the sleeve at each end of the idler arm. The idler goes in the mounting bracket on the k frame and the bolt goes in from the top. The washer goes on the bottom (you currently have it on the top), then the nut. Tighten the nut and the ears should pull in and tighten on the idler arm sleeve. Torque to factory setting; 45 ft# I believe.

 

[747mopar]

My idler arm is installed the same as you have posted, the metal isn't very thick and will flex in tight although mine is tight. If your really concerned about it I have a reprint of the original service manual "you've got to get one, it has everything down to where to put the seam sealer".

 

[Mr.SpeedFreak]

Perfect, thanks for all the help guys! I had a feeling the tabs on my k frame might have been a little wide. I have the sleeve and foam in like you described, and the steering box clocked and centered no problem. So I'll just switch that washer, flip my center link around, tighten everything down and I should be golden.

Pretty simple stuff, but I'd definitely rather ask dumb questions than have to fix dumb mistakes after the motor is in haha. So thanks again guys, more proof that FBBO has one of the best groups of mopar guys/girls out there
ccasion14: