If your idler arm IS bad, then order it from Rock Auto. They're HALF the price of O'Reillys, or Advanced. And, the shipping to me was only $12.50! If it's something I need, but can wait for it, then I'll ALWAYS get it from Rock Auto!!
These other guys are correct, about the older cars having some 'looseness'. I prefer that, myself! My '00 Grand Marquis has NO play in the steering, whatsoever! I really can't believe that, since it has 'regular' steering (not rack and pinion). If you move the wheel a millimeter, it's turning! I hate that! My '05 Mustangs were like that, too, but they DID have rack and pinion. That's why you don't see any newer cars in my signature! I'll just keep buying old cars, until I can't find good ones anymore.
John