So per my DIY, I replaced all tie rods, the drag link and idler bushing. Ive noted that there is even less play in the steering (and my 82 has less than my 81, which has next to none). Very nice. But I note more effort is required too. Ive only backed the car out of the driveway so far so Im not going off of much a basis... But the stiffness/effort difference was notable.

I just want to be alert and knowing what to look/feel for in case I did something wrong... Just to be careful. So is it typical for a decent amount of effort to be necessary after doing this or should it just be less sloppy?

I torqued the idler to the right amount, 120 nm, which IIRC is 88 ft-lb. The other ball joints on the tie rod ends I tightened down by holding the allen wrench to keep the shaft in place, then just went on my ratcheting box end wrench to "wrist tight", being sure to not distort the rubber caps.

I also changed the steering shock. Maybe that helped too, but I know it didnt do much on my 83 when I replaced it there.

So suggestions? Just want to be sure I dont cause a big issue...

Thanks!

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Current Diesels:
1981 240D (73K)
1982 300CD (169k)
1985 190D (169k)
1991 350SD (116k)
1991 350SD (206k)
1991 300D (228k)
2008 ML320 CDI (199k)
1996 Dodge Ram CTD (442k)
1996 Dodge Ram CTD (267k)

Past Diesels:
1983 300D (228K), 1985 300D (233K), 1993 300D 2.5T (338k), 1993 300SD (291k)