50 mercury idler arm

[bssmnbll]

I have had some wandering going on with my Merc, and finally got time to get under and see what was up. It appears the previous owner/owners altered the original idler arm design, by adding roller bearings to each end, and all I had to do was tighten the adjustments up on the bearings, to take the excess movement out.
As the pictures of this recreation are on my "new phone" and I am computer challenged, I will have the "computer-person" add them, when She has a moment. But, for a lot of backyard mechanics, I think this altered design of the original equipment will be interesting to say the least. Pics to follow soon.

 

[richard crow]

that was a common repair when these were every day cars. thy made roller bearing kits for the idler arm they worked well. they out lasted the stock ones & made the steering a little ezere

 

[51 MERC-CT]

Although the idler arm may or may contribute in a small measure to the wandering.
The bigger contribution to the wandering can be found in the steering box adjustment along with wear in other components.
And also these suspensions were designed with built in 'bump-steer.
There is a cure for the bump-steer along with a new idler arm.
Would like to see the old cure.