W123 Steering Idler makes a groaning noise... Why?

I changed this steering idler last year, it made the steering not return to center as well, and after a few months it started groaning.
Measuring the tube on your frame is essential, some were different, and you need to get the right one, or get appropriate spacers as FSM 46-520 9b mentions (Spacer mentioned: 1154630152)
The idler bushing kit I used is part number 1264600819, made by Febi Bilstein.
Watch out because many I've seen online are cheap knockoffs by no-name brands, I'm unsure of quality on any of these and most Febi ones like I found are NOS so likely any links I provide won't last long.
The FSM refers to this as an intermediate steering arm, and mentions there are a ton of various part numbers depending on what version and application your car was equipped with.
Righthand drive and Lefthand drive got different ones for example, and some did not have the part number but rather a code number cast into the part
Vaguely what the FSM says:
1234632610 LHD (Code: 2326)
1234632710 RHD (Code: 2327)
1st version, Has stop lug
1234633210 LHD (Code: 2332)
2nd version, for manual steering with stop lug, replaces 2326 and 2327
1234633310 RHD (Code: 2333)
3rd version, for power steering, replaces 2328, 2329, 2330 and 2331
1234632810 LHD (Code: 2328)
1234632910 RHD (Code: 2329)
Intermediate version, for power steering, mounts without washer
1234633010 LHD (Code: 2330)
1234633110 RHD (Code: 2331)
2nd version, for power steering
0:00 Intro
2:14 The offending part
3:57 Measuring parts
5:00 Install new bushing
6:43 No more noise!
Become a channel member to get early access to videos and help support what I do:
/ @trythistv

[@ebutuoyebutouy]

Thanks for sharing. Merry Christmas.

[@trythistv]

Thanks so much! Hope you've had a great holiday season as well!

[@vintage76vipergreenBeetle]

Nice information. Happy Holidays to you.

[@trythistv]

Thanks! I've enjoyed some downtime over the holidays. Hope you've had a great time as well!

[@olavi_liikanen]

Thanks for info!

[@AlienLivesMatter]

It is such a superficial complaint that after changing mine years ago I no longer care. On the occasion it groans I laugh as if my Benz just did a fart. Usually the sound will only occur when needing full lock at near stationary. And is entirely functional for a very long time after it begins groaning more frequently

[@trythistv]

Mine was groaning any time the wheel was turned even slightly, and it also did not return to center even slightly so it tended to wander and memory steer. Likely yours isn't that bad, it is possible some were machined closer to the correct spec, the noise irritated me but the tightness of the steering was unsafe.