Replace the idler arm on the steering linkage to restore proper steering geometry and eliminate play in the front suspension steering system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Idler arm assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or Moog K6141
• Castle nut (if not included with idler arm) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cotter pin × 1 — 1/8" x 1.5"

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Spray penetrating oil on all idler arm mounting fasteners and taper pin connection, allow 15-20 minutes to penetrate
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack at front crossmember
5. Support vehicle on jack stands placed under frame rails behind front wheels
6. Remove front passenger side wheel for improved access (optional but recommended)

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove castle nut from center link connection
   Locate the idler arm ball stud connection to the center link (relay rod). Remove the cotter pin using pliers and discard. Using a socket and breaker bar, remove the castle nut from the idler arm ball stud. The castle nut may require significant torque to break free due to age and corrosion.
2. 2

   Separate idler arm from center link
   Position a pickle fork or ball joint separator between the idler arm and center link connection point. Strike the tool with a hammer to drive the wedge into the taper fit, or use a pitman arm puller to apply steady pressure. The taper will release suddenly when enough force is applied. Allow the center link to drop away from the idler arm stud.
3. 3

   Remove idler arm frame mounting bolts
   Locate the bolts securing the idler arm bracket to the frame rail on the passenger side (verify count and orientation against the 1966 Corvette chassis service manual). These fasteners pass through the frame. Using a socket and wrench combination, remove both mounting bolts. The frame-side nuts may be difficult to access and may require a box-end wrench. Remove the idler arm assembly from the vehicle.
4. 4

   Clean mounting surfaces
   Use a wire brush to clean the frame mounting surface where the idler arm bracket mates. Remove all rust, old thread locker, and debris from the bolt holes. Inspect the frame for cracks, excessive rust, or damage that would compromise mounting integrity. Clean the center link taper bore if debris is present.
5. 5

   Position new idler arm assembly
   Position the new idler arm assembly to the frame rail, aligning the mounting holes. The arm should extend toward the driver side of the vehicle with the ball stud pointing upward. Insert both frame mounting bolts from the inside of the frame, threading them into the bracket. Apply medium-strength thread locker to the bolt threads if desired.
6. 6

   Torque idler arm mounting bolts
   Tighten the idler arm frame mounting bolts to the value specified in the 1966 Corvette chassis service manual; verify exact spec before final tightening. Verify the idler arm bracket sits flush against the frame with no gaps. Check that the arm swings freely through its range of motion without binding.
7. 7

   Connect center link to idler arm
   Lift the center link and align the tapered bore with the idler arm ball stud. The center link may need to be maneuvered by turning the steering wheel or moving the opposite tie rod. Slide the center link fully onto the idler arm taper until it seats completely.
8. 8

   Install and torque castle nut
   Thread the castle nut onto the idler arm ball stud. Tighten the castle nut to the value specified in the 1966 Corvette chassis service manual using a torque wrench; verify exact spec before tightening. Continue tightening only as much as necessary to align the castle nut slots with the cotter pin hole in the stud. Do not back off the nut to align the hole; only tighten further if needed.
9. 9

   Install cotter pin
   Insert a new cotter pin through the castle nut slots and the ball stud hole. Bend the cotter pin legs in opposite directions around the castle nut to secure it. Trim excess length if necessary, leaving approximately 1/4 inch of pin extending past the bend.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall wheel if removed, torquing lug nuts to 80 ft-lbs in a star pattern
2. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle to ground
3. Bounce front suspension several times to settle components
4. Test steering wheel for proper return-to-center and no binding through full lock-to-lock motion

Verification

• Start engine and turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary, listening for any binding or unusual noises
• With vehicle on ground, grasp the idler arm and attempt to move it by hand - there should be no vertical play or looseness
• Inspect all fasteners for proper torque and cotter pin installation
• Schedule a professional front-end alignment within the next few days, as idler arm replacement will alter toe settings

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