How to Change an Idler Arm
Every car has an idler arm, used mainly for holding the drag link up on the vehicle’s passenger side. Its other end attaches to the Pitman arm, which is then used for moving the steering through the drag link and is attached to the steering gear box. Just like other car parts, the idler arm can become worn out in time, causing the steering to become extremely used due to excess use in the steering wheel. You need to replace the idler arm, so your vehicle’s performance stays superior.
What You’ll Need:
New idler arm
3/8-inch sockets
3/8-inch extension (6-inch long)
3/8 ratchet
Wrench
Tie rod remover
Floor jack and jack stand
Wire cutter
Procedure:
Get the jack stands and carefully raise and support the vehicle.
Locate the idler arm. Pull the cotter pin off its shaft, then unscrew the nut on the shaft using the the correct sized wrench.
Take away the drag link from the idler arm, using the tie rod remover.
Look for the two nuts and bolts that are running through the frame and are holding the idler arm on. Use a ratchet and a right-sized socket to take them off. The size of this part depends on your vehicle’s model, manufacturing year and make. You’ll see the bolts running from the frame’s outside towards the inside, as the threads protrude through the idler arm and the frame. Use the 6-inch extension to reach the bolts. There are holes provided on the frame’s outside, you can reach them through it.
Using a wrench, keep the nuts steady as you unscrew the bolts. Keep the bolts in the frame, but they shouldn’t fall in where you can’t reach them.
Carefully pull off the idler arm. Examine its orientation before you pull it. When you’ve taken it off, put back the new idler arm, in the same position as the old one. As you put back the bolts, be careful not to push them into the frame. Use the extension and socket to hold onto the them. Afterwards, put the nuts on the bolts, then use a wrench and socket to tighten them.
Push the drag link back on your idler arm’s shaft, then put back the nut and tighten it. Push a cotter pin in its respective hole.
With proper instructions and the right tools, you can replace an idler arm without much hassle. If you’re not acquainted well with car parts, though, it’s better to have a professional do this for you. You might only end up doing more harm than good.