Clunky steering idler

[RickPA]

67 BJ8 - Chased down a knock in the front suspension to slight vertical motion in the steering idler. I've never had this guy apart (until now). The lever arm was pressed on the splines of the shaft very tightly but not snug up against the bottom of the idler body. This allowed about 1/16 to 1/8" up/down play of the shaft before the top of the shaft contacted the cover of the idler causing a clunk. Should I press the lever arm onto the splines of shaft until it is snug against the oil ring at the bottom of the body or is there​ supposed to be a certain amount of play so it doesn't bind?

 

[red57]

The lever arm does not need to go on any further. The end float of the shaft is controlled at the top end. The larger diameter flange at the top of the shaft sets in the recess of the top of the housing and the top cap sets above the flange and that is what controls the float. You may have some wear in the housing, the flange itself or the top cap. If there is too much end float with a new gasket, you may have to make your own gasket out of thinner gasket paper. If things are worn enough to allow too much end float, check the fit of the bushings too. While you have it apart, it's the easy time to put new bushings in if needed.

 

[RickPA]

Thanks. After removing the old gasket I did a quick test and no float. I have new gasket and oil seal on the way. If the float comes back with the new gasket I'll try what you suggest and make a thinner one. Cheers

 

[RickPA]

thanks

 

[RickPA]

I got the idler re-assembled but when I snug down the bolts on the top the arm is extremely difficult to move. I checked the new gasket alignment and it's good. I also put oil in and let it settle. How much resistance should there be? I realize I'm not as strong as the car but it sure feels stiff!

 

[BigGreen]

When apart from the car it should move easy with the use of both hands.

Hans

 

[RickPA]

Uh-oh, thanks. I'll check the oil seal and pin seating.

 

[Keoke]

Uh-oh, thanks. I'll check the oil seal and pin seating.

Originally the sealing washer was supplied as a peel and fit Item.

You will have to laminate thin seals until the Idler moves freely like Hans said.

 

[RickPA]

So the gasket I got from Moss apparently is too thin for my situation. I made my own from some thicker gasket material and problem solved. Thanks guys.