What is the device that the right end of the steering damper connects to? It is an arm that rotates about a 3" long bushing and is welded to the frame. What is it called and what does it do?

When I turn the wheel to either extreme this bushing makes a loud groaning noise, and the car will then pull in that direction until I turn the wheel to the other extreme. After that I have the same problem, different direction. Any suggestions?

Is there a kit to rebuild this bushing joint? Can I just lube it or loosen it a bit?

Thanks for any help.

-Erik
'85 300TD 200k

Anyone?

That piece that is welded to the frame of your car is the idler arm. If the rubber bushings wear or get dry, it will groan like a dying horse. That's how one lady described it to me. She should know. She breeds horses here in the Bluegrass and races them everywhere.Repair kits are available. Cost:$20-$25.
Bill Lewallen Lexington,Ky.

How hard is it to replace Idler Bushings on a 124?

I ordered a bushing kit, and a new stabalizer after my
"drift" at speed was traced to play in the idler arm.

What kind of difficulty can I expect? I have read in the
123s had to have the exhaust dropped (?!?) and am hoping
the 124's are not so involved.

Thanks,

Craig Amos
1987 300D Turbo

I've never replaced the idler arm bolt on a W124 300D so I don't know if the exhaust has to be dropped. You can probably figure it out for yourself. Look under the car and see if there is room to lift the idler arm bolt its entire length straight up from where it is. It's got to be 15-18cm long. You might be able to wiggle it out if the bushings are worn, but you won't wiggle it in with the new bushings.

Sixto
91 300SE
86 300SDL (due soon)
81 300SD (for sale cheap)