How do you remove a Pitman from an idler arm?
Use a pickle fork or a puller to separate the Pitman from the centerlink. You should be able to remove the Pitman by pulling down on the centerlink and slipping it out. If you’re doing both the idler arm and the Pitman today, this is where you will appreciate the fact that you have not installed the idler arm yet.
What does the idler arm do in a car?
It acts as a pivoting support on the passenger side of the vehicle, so it attaches to the opposite end of the center link and transfers steering motion to the passenger side of the vehicle. Once you understand the large role that the simple idler arm plays, it’s easier to get an idea of where things can go wrong.
What should I use to Grease my idler arm?
For example, idler arms are often installed with grease fittings. During routine oil change, use the opportunity to lubricate idler arm grease fittings with a grease gun.
How do you replace the idler arm on a truck?
Place the idler arm’s bolt in the centerline. Insert the new bolts through the frame making sure to put the new washers under the bolt heads. Position the idler arm so the frame bolts slide through the bolt holes. Install the washers and the nuts. Torque to your car’s specs.
When does an idler pulley need to be replaced?
Most engines use one idler pulley, and one tensioner pulley, though some designs do use more than one idler. Over time, idler pulleys will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Usually a bad or failing idler pulley will produce a few symptoms that can notify the driver of an issue. 1. Visibly worn pulleys
Can a pitman puller be used as an idler arm?
Separating the idler arm and the center link can be a real pain. You should use a Pitman puller, but some pitman pullers don’t fit on the idler so you’re forced to muscle it off with a pickle fork. Trim some metal off of the inside of your Pitman puller and you can use it to remove the idler. Install your new idler arm now. Chuck