P/S idler arm swap?
 

I have a 66 short step I swapped the front cross member on from an 81 half ton. I need to find an idler arm that will work with the 81 center/drag link. What have you guys used? I did a search and came up empty. TIA!

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

I used the later model idler arm too. Just clamp it into place and drill the two holes.

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

So just eyeballing it get's it close enough??

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

I've done two trucks that way without any problems. Just square it forward to back and level the center link in relation to the crossmember. Use C clamps to secure it to the frame and drill the two holes.

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

Just use your original idler and drag link as a reference. Take some measurements and position the newer one in the same position and then do as Tx Firefighter said, clamp it to the frame and drill your holes.

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

I just swapped a 71 crossmember and spindles under my 64, using all 71 tie rods and components including the 71 idler arm. And it is just like the boys have said before me , measure, clamp and drill away.

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

OK, thanks for the tips.

Re: P/S idler arm swap?
 

I noticed that if you bolt up the steering box first it give you the right angle on the idler arm. Before I knew about the REZ kit I just drilled some holes and bolted up the steering box with some spacers. After I used the rez kit I had to redrill my idler arm again as it angled back about 1/2". I welded a piece of 1/8" metal to the back of the first hole I drilled and filled the hole back up and then drilled a new hole. can't have oblong holes holding the idler arm.