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TR2/3/3A Cracked Welds on Steering Idler Arm

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M

mastaphixa

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After bead blasting my steering idler arm prior to powder coating it, I happen to inspect the welds that hold the arm to the shaft and found cracks in both welds. The image provided is not of the arm in question, but for reference only. I vee'd out the cracks and re-welded the arm/shaft as well as adding additional beads. There was no apparent deformation of the arm or shaft. Just a heads up for everyone.
 

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Those are often wore out inside, and IMHO a weak spot on the car. Check it for wiggle; it should not have any. Probably replaces that.
 
Thanks CJ. SP53, this one is nice and tight, otherwise I would have just replaced it.
 
I also have a 58 TR3A 32847 and had a 60 TR3A. Thirty-five years ago I had the front end rebuilt on my 1960. When I drove it home I felt like it didn't handle any better than before. Then I got a call from the shop saying "Don't drive the car" The mechanic showed up at my house a few minutes later with the idler arm bolts in his hand. Drove great after that. Apparently those idler arms are over rated. ;-)
 
Must be my eyes, I don't see any cracks. Typical ****ty tack welds (which are just reinforcement for a press fit), but they don't look cracked to me.

And I agree with Steve, the idler doesn't do much.
 
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