While I'm all up in my car's steering and suspension on the front end, I was looking at replacing or rebuilding my idler arm. It looks like there's not an easy answer. From reading the past threads, I've come across a handful of parts, but it seems like all the ones that are great fits are discontinued.
Cugar parts reproduction, out of stock and backordered. https://secure.cougarpartscatalog.com/71idler.html?sessionthemeid=26
Moog K8165. correct fit and geometry. discontinued
Moog K8118. they say its the correct part, but guys are around here saying it's not right
ProForged 102-10076. Good geometry and fit, but Discontinued
NPD part #3355-1. correct geometry, but top hole needs to be slotted. Its currently available for order https://www.npdlink.com/product/idler-arm/148651
trans-am roller. available for order, expensive, and may affect how the steering wheel returns to center? https://opentrackerracing.com/product/trans-style-roller-idler-arm-1971-1973-mustang-cougar/
rare parts #20250. correct geometry, does not look correct. currently available. https://fcrcmachine.com/rare-parts-idler-arm-1971-1973-ford-mustang-mercury-cougar-20250/
ACDelco 45C1011. Rock Auto lists this as a part for our cars and its in stock. I haven't seen anywhere else online confirming the fitment.
CJ pony parts H18750. Shows in stock. But for some reason only works for manual steering. No idea why this one doesn't work for power steering. The one review says it changes the steering geometry and requires enlarging the mounting holes. https://www.cjponyparts.com/idler-arm-mustang-1971-1973/p/H18750/
scott drake D1ZZ-3350-AR. Item description says its for a 71-73 mustang with power steering. It is currently available for order. I cannot find any feedback from purchasers to know how well it fits.
I'd obviously prefer something that is as close to the original as possible. I have a milling machine and can handle slotting the NPD if absolutely necessary. If it would work, I'm not opposed to pulling the arm off the NPD unit and using it on the mounting bracket from my factory one.
What say the hive on this? Am I overlooking something or is it really this much trouble? For a while I was thinking that it was only the front urethane bumpers that were hard to track down.
