Yes the rear is going to be next, with KYB shocks going in, may re-do some brake and fuel lines as there is quite a bit of corrosion.

As far as the Gen 2 idler, it is a little bit different design, and supposed to be a bit beefier in construction. It needed one ear lopped off to fit, and it is a little longer than the original Gen 1. I researched on here beforehand and confirmed that there is no clearance issue or negative effect. Again though, I have not put but a mile or two just to test things before I take it to get aligned, so a long term test will be in the works. Funny you say your aftermarket idler was trash- I ordered a set of front end parts (balls, ties, idler) and the idler was a totally different design, wouldn't even fit to the frame. Oh well, I figured I would give the Gen 2 a shot since it will hopefully be stronger too.

That reminds me SO MUCH of my old FJ55 that its not funny. Same coloring, similar stance. Nice right you've got there. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I bounced between Rock Auto and Napa, searching for more common Japanese cars that may have the same pattern. There are also some Nissans that could also work. These were from a 95 Mx-6 or 626 I believe. Ebay also has universal hotrod hardware that would fit too. Some of my catalogs from Summit and Speedway have braided line with metric ends too

Also picked up a new toy for (hopefully) some trails this spring....and to make the trash runs to the dump <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Also it's the difference in length that is killer. Replace your pitman with one from a Gen 2 so that they'll be the same length, or you'll have issues, someone here broke a pitman because of it. The idler and the pitman MUST be the same length.

Audi question... there's a needle bearing inside the hub assembly that the axle shaft rides on. Did you check yours to make sure they are good?

When I did all this work to my truck I didnt even know those little guys existed and I had to reassemble everything, wait for parts from rock auto, and do it twice cause one was bad.

I could have sworn I read on here somewhere that the Gen 2 pitman was a different spline count? Or am I mistaken? I did not replace the pitman yet (been years ago) but the previous upgrade posts I saw just did the idler itself

I almost overlooked these...until I was searching Rock Auto and all the different bearings. The spindle/knuckle seal and needle bearings were also bought with all the other parts...although I will say the needle bearings were a pain to pound out

Does the change to the Gen II UCA also affect the castor angle? Looks like the knuckle tilts back from a vertical centerline.

Good question...I didn't snap a pic before to compare the difference. Haven't heard anything negative from others' experience upgrading, anyone have thoughts?