I'm not sure where the problem is....
You have a center rod with joints on both ends that ties the steering arm
to the idler arm. Is it a joint on the center rod that is loose?
If so you should probably replace both joints.
The steering rods on both sides also have joints on each end and they get
worn and loose also, usually causing clanking on sharp bumps. Those joints
are not replaceable - you have to replace the rod. Right and left are
different from each other.

Then you have the steering idler arm bushing. Not sure if you have the early
one with a big steel shaft and metal bushing or the later one that uses the
rubber bushing (also used on the 140/164). The idler arm bushings (either
kind)also wear out.
So be sure you replace the right part (or all of them).

I used to use a pickle fork and occasionally still do but there are other tools
that are a bit gentler. There is a pin pusher that separates the center rod
and steering rod ends from the steering and idler arms by pushing on the
threaded end as you tighten a big bolt. There is also a ball joint press (that
I used to make based on a factory tool) that will push the lower ball joint out
of the spindle forging. Both the above have the advantage that they don't
destroy the part in disassembly. I recommend their use as less destructive.
--
George Downs Bartlesville, Heart of the USA!