Idler Arm: Testing and Inspection

Idler Arm Inspection

Special Tools

* J 35999 - Spring Scale

* J 42640 - Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin

* J 45101 - Hub and Wheel Runout Gauge

1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and support it with jackstands. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle Service and Repair.





Caution:
With wheels of the vehicle facing straight ahead, secure the steering wheel utilizing steering column anti-rotation pin, steering column lock, or a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

* The steering column

* The intermediate shaft(s)

* The steering gear

After disconnecting these components, do not rotate the steering wheel or move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the SIR coil assembly to become un-centered and cause possible damage to the SIR coil. If you think the SIR coil has became un-centered, refer to your specific SIR coil's centering procedure to re-center SIR Coil.

2. Position the wheels straight-ahead and install J 42640 - steering column anti-rotation pin.

3. Install J 45101 - hub and wheel runout gauge between the idler arm and the vehicle frame.
Ensure the runout gauge is at zero before taking the measurement.




4. Place J 35999 - spring scale near the relay rod end of the idler arm.




5. Exert a 110 Nm (25 lb) force upward and then downward while measuring the total distance the idler arm moves.




6. If the movement exceeds 2 mm (0.078 in) then replace the idler arm.




7. Install the runout gauge at the idler arm.

8. Push the tire inward slowly with one hand to remove any lash.
Zero out the runout gauge and pull outward in order to take a reading.




9. Allow only 1 mm (0.039 in) of movement at the idler arm ball stud.
If the movement is more than 1 mm (0.039 in) then replace the idler arm.