1968 Suspension & Steering

[Mosesatm]

Is the idler arm shaft supposed to be offset like the one shown? There is no gap at the top and a large gap at the bottom.

 

[CougarCJ]

That one is aftermarket. I have seen it before. Has zerk fitting and wrong or no swedging on the threads. I have seen examples with Ford part numbers too.

 

[Mosesatm]

Here are a couple photos of the arm from my J-code I think it was an original.

 

[CougarCJ]

Found an example of an original, they do have bushings that extend like in your photo. Editing what I said above.
Originals do not have zerk fittings. Additionally the threaded portion that protrudes from the nut is "pinched", so it can not loosen.

 

[Ruppstang]

+1 Marty

 

[Mosesatm]

Did any original steering or suspension parts have grease fittings?

 

[Ruppstang]

No they did not. The upper and lower ball joints had plugs.

 

[Mosesatm]

Replacing original 50 year old tie rod ends is now officially added to the list of things I never want to do again, right above replacing seat upholstery. And I’ve done only one side!!!

 

[robert campbell]

Ha, I am topping you. Drum brake 1966 Cheby El Camino full on brake job. Brand X at its finest!!! Big Block 325 hp 396 which is pretty much a "stone" in the power department. Stock 390's used them up.

I hate brake work, but this is a great customer.

Rob

 

[Mosesatm]

Don’t forget that there are left and right adjusters. Switching them creates all sorts of problems.

 

[Mosesatm]

Are you @@@@@@@ kidding me?!!!!

 

[Ruppstang]

I just hate when stuff like that happens!

 

[franklinair]

Oops. On that subject, what justifies $450 for rollerized spring saddles?

Neil

 

[Mosesatm]

It's a good thing I ordered two sets. One set from Rock Auto (pictured) at $12 each, and another set from NPD at $25 each.

I wanted to see if the Rock Auto set is any good at half the price of NPD.
Apparently not.
Now I'll find out about their customer service.

By the way, Amazon also has car parts.

 

[Mosesatm]

The NPD seats have all their bolts!
They also seem to be more stout.

 

[Ruppstang]

That is one place I would not want to skimp.

 

[franklinair]

I opted for the Scott Drake high performance spring saddles ($60ea) from CJ Pony parts. They get excellent reviews. They're better than the standard type, less costly than the roller bearing units. Plus free shipping.

Neil

 

[Mosesatm]

Just once before I die I’d like to order something from NPD that actually fits.

 

[franklinair]

Are you going to sanitize the wheel wells & suspension?

Neil

 

[Mosesatm]

Nope, and anyone who looks under there will get kicked!!!
I’ll detail the engine compartment over the winter.