[RogueGT03]

This problem is not unique to the Alfa, my brother has an F150 with linkage rattle (Ford TSB) they replaced the linkage with new design and the rattle is gone. The proof will be over time as the old linkage was 5 yrs old when it too had elongated at the mounting holes...actually looks like these things are a cheap pot-metal alloy. I have recently read BMW is having this same problem. Likely the same company is the supplier of this waste gate arm. Can you say "Made in China"??😂😂

 

[RogueGT03]

I bothered to check "the internet" and it says that "pot metal" is remarkably ill defined:

1) Metal used to make a pot. Typically copper or cast iron.
2) Metal that can be melted in a (cast iron?) pot. Typically some mix of lead, tin and zinc.
3) Metal scraps that were tossed into a pot. Fully random composition depending on the source of the scraps.

Before looking this up, I was only familiar with definition 2). I am going to guess that you intended to use definition 3). Whatever was used is certainly magnetic and much harder than any metal as defined in 2), and it clearly can withstand much higher temperatures than definition 2).

Anyway, please beware of the massive ambiguity when using said term.
Also, my guess is that some specific alloy of iron or nickel is used, selected to be easily die cut as a cost cutting measure.

WOW, I wish I had this kind of time...😂. I never claimed it "WAS / IS" pot metal. It "looks like" what I'm familiar with as pot metal (monkey metal we sometimes refer) having worked with machine shops for a very long time. My point was it appears to be a very poor quality metal or very poorly made seeing as it's an industry wide issue with similar failures through several car brands.

 

[RogueGT03]

I'm sure you're right! Something has to be sacrificial and in many instances the "easiest" cheapest part to replace. Short of using something more like oil impregnated bronze bushings in the pivot hole. Just curious to see if the original is a cast part.??