How to Replace an Idler Arm

Idler arm or idler arm assembly holds up the drag link on the passenger side whereas its other end attaches to the Pitman arm. The Pitman arm is used to move the steering through drag link and is attached to the steering gear box. At times the idler arm worn out and as a result the steering becomes slack causing free play in the steering wheel. In this situation you will have to replace the idler arm.

Required Items

• Wrench
• 3/8 inch extension
• 3/8 inch sockets
• 3/8 ratchet
• Floor jack
• Jack stand
• Wire cutter
• Tie rod remover
• Cotter pins

Directions

1. Lift the car with the help of jack and prop the car on jack stands.
2. Look for idler arm. Remove the cotter pin from the idler arm shaft. Take the nut out on the shaft.
3. With the help of tie rod remover, remove the drag link from the idler arm.
4. Locate the two nuts which are holding the idler arm on the frame. Take a correct size ratchet and a socket to remove them. The size varies according to the make, year and model of the car. The bolts run from the external side of the frame inward with the threads prominent through the idler arm and the frame. To reach the bolts you will need the 6 inch extension. These bolts can be accessed from the outer side of the frame where holes are provided for this purpose.
5. Take wrench and holds the nut to avoid them from turning and in a mean while unscrew the bolts. Do not take the bolts out of the frame.
6. Take idler arm out. Carefully note the adjustment of the idler arm, because you need the same adjustment while fixing the new idler arm. Install the new idler arm with same adjustment you had noticed with old idler frame. Take the nuts and fasten them on the bolts with the help of wrench and socket.
7. Adjust the drag link back on the new idler arm. Fasten the nuts and bolts and replace the cotter pin.

There are few things which you have to keep in mind while changing the idler arm. And these directions are more than enough to help you doing this task with an ease. But be careful if you think you are having any problem doing this job, contact the mechanic for help and guidance.