This idler arm is a direct-fit steering component designed for 1972–1974 Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac trucks and passenger cars. It supports the steering linkage, maintains proper steering geometry, and works with the pitman arm to stabilize the center of the drag link. Built for durability and reliable performance, this replacement idler arm restores proper steering feel, reduces play and uneven tire wear, and helps prevent premature component failure. Easy to install as a restoration or maintenance part, it’s an essential upgrade when rebuilding or repairing vintage GM steering systems.
Features:
- Fitment: Direct-fit for 1972–1974 Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac models that use a conventional idler arm steering linkage.
- Constructed from high-grade steel for strength and long service life.
- Precision-machined pivot and bushing to minimize steering play and improve alignment.
- Helps reduce vibration and uneven tire wear by stabilizing the drag link.
- Designed as a direct replacement for worn or damaged idler arms during restoration or routine maintenance.
- Easy-to-access mounting points for straightforward installation with common hand tools.
Installation / Application:
- Difficulty: 3/5
- Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
Instructions:
- Park vehicle on level ground, engage parking brake, and block rear wheels.
- Raise the front of the vehicle with a jack and secure it on jack stands. Remove the front wheels if needed for access.
- Locate the idler arm on the passenger side of the frame where the drag link attaches. Apply penetrating oil to mounting nuts and the drag link stud.
- Support the drag link and separate it from the idler arm stud using a ball joint separator or pickle fork. Use a hammer carefully if needed.
- Remove the mounting bolts/nuts that secure the idler arm to the frame. Keep track of any shims or brackets for reinstallation.
- Remove the old idler arm. Clean the mounting area with a wire brush and inspect the frame mounting holes for damage or excess corrosion.
- Position the new idler arm in place, reinstall any shims/brackets, and hand-thread the mounting bolts. Tighten to manufacturer-specified torque with a torque wrench.
- Reconnect the drag link to the idler arm stud and secure with the nut. Torque the stud nut to specification and install a cotter pin if applicable.
- If the idler arm has a grease fitting, lubricate according to guidelines. Lower the vehicle and reinstall wheels if removed.
- After installation, have a wheel alignment performed to ensure proper steering geometry and to prevent uneven tire wear.
About Redline Select
Redline Restomotive® has established itself as a premier brand in the world of classic car restoration, providing enthusiasts with high-quality parts that meet the exacting standards of original manufacturer specifications. Dedicated to the preservation of American automotive history, Redline Restomotive® combines advanced manufacturing techniques with an in-depth understanding of vintage vehicles. The result is a range of products that seamlessly blend into the design and function of classic cars, giving restorers and collectors the assurance that each part reflects the era’s style, quality, and performance.
Redline Select® is our premium line of steering and suspension products for all vehicle makes and models including both North American and Import vehicles. We have partnered with an ISO 9001/QS9000/TS16949 certified manufacturing facility with more than 40 years of experience in producing components that perform to the standards our customers expect. Our steering and suspension parts are backed by multiple quality control checks along the way—during production, prior to shipping from the factory, and at arrival. With our ISO 9001:2015 certification, we observe the world’s highest standards for quality management.
Vehicle Fitment:
The Vehicle Fitment Guide is to be used as a general reference. The data has been provided by our suppliers and manufacturers and may contain errors or incorrect data. Always refer to a professional to verify correct fitment for your vehicle.
| Make |
Model |
Years |
| Buick |
Centurion |
1973 |
| Buick |
Century |
1973 - 1974 |
| Buick |
Electra |
1973 - 1974 |
| Buick |
Estate Wagon |
1973 - 1974 |
| Buick |
GS 455 |
1972 |
| Buick |
GS |
1972 |
| Buick |
LeSabre |
1973 - 1974 |
| Buick |
Regal |
1973 - 1974 |
| Buick |
Riviera |
1973 - 1974 |
| Chevrolet |
Bel Air |
1973 |
| Chevrolet |
Caprice |
1973 |
| Chevrolet |
Chevelle |
1973 |
| Chevrolet |
El Camino |
1973 - 1974 |
| Chevrolet |
Impala |
1973 |
| Chevrolet |
Malibu |
1973 - 1974 |
| Chevrolet |
Monte Carlo |
1973 - 1974 |
| GMC |
Sprint |
1973 - 1974 |
| Oldsmobile |
98 |
1973 - 1974 |
| Oldsmobile |
Custom Cruiser |
1973 - 1974 |
| Oldsmobile |
Cutlass Supreme |
1973 - 1974 |
| Oldsmobile |
Cutlass |
1973 - 1974 |
| Oldsmobile |
Delta 88 |
1973 - 1974 |
| Oldsmobile |
Vista Cruiser |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
Bonneville |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
Catalina |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
GTO |
1973 |
| Pontiac |
Grand Am |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
Grand Prix |
1972 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
Grand Safari |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
Grandville |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
LeMans |
1973 - 1974 |
| Pontiac |
Parisienne |
1973 - 1974 |
