I am in the process of finalizing my HG restoration and found that my front idlers are VERY sloppy! The reference diagrams in the manual are not very clear. It looks like there are 2 oil seals per idler and maybe 1 bushing? Or, are there 2 bushings (inner & outer)? Is there anything else there that would need replacement?
I'm in the same boat with my restoration. I have looked at that cut-away diagram in the books and scratched my head? I'd probably have a better idea what it looked like if I could get it apart. I have some very rusty and stubborn nuts all along this assembly. . .
Informed advice will serve two restoration wannabes in this case.
The front wheels are just like the lower track wheels. Pry out the seal from each side and you should find a snap ring holding in the bushing retainers. Remove the snap rings press out the bushing retainers. No press -- replace a nut on the axel and use a hammer on a piece of brass to pound out the bushing retainer. A press is your best option.
Your wear is probably due to the axel being worn out of round. I turned mine down on a lathe and made over sized bushings. Landis Zimmerman should have new axels , original sized bushings and bushing carriers if you need them.
They go back together just like the lower track wheels -- remember to put the seals in backwards so oil can be pushed through.
Mike Shanley, Woodbury MN