Hello, I recently completed installation of the idler arm kit on my 230sl and thought I'd provide an update..
I finally got the idler arm cap-nut off using a 27mm (1-1/16") crowfoot wrench along with a 1/2 drive pull bar. I followed Dan's advice for removal/installation of the idler arm bushing and all went well. Note that it was NOT necessary to ream the bushing. The idler shaft was in great shape and once greased, it slid into the bushing with very little persuasion..
I've now installed a new drag link and steering shock. Unfortunately, I’ve hit another roadblock. With the drag link and steering shock installed, I found that when centered, the steering shock hits the mount for the brace bar (the brace mount is welded to the sub-frame). The attached pictures show my dilemma.
I’m using the correct Bilstein steering shock (F4-B22-0246-BS) and correct Lemforder drag link so I can’t understand why the shock hits the brace mount!
I took a look at the old drag link and noticed that a previous owner (or shop) bent the shock mount apparently to keep the old shock from hitting the brace mount. I’ve attached a picture of the old drag link showing the (bent) shock mount.
Is it common practice to have to bend the shock mount (on the drag link) to prevent the steering shock from contacting the brace mount? Has anyone ever encountered this problem? Thanks, Charles