Have you had this truck since it was new or know the service history? Difference in wear could be because of some prior work being done on one side and not the other. When I replace idler/pitman, I usually do both sides just to get new parts on there because trouble seems to go to the weakest point. Cupping of tires can be caused by bad shocks. You might want to check the ball joints, upper and lower control arm bushings, and tie-rod ends. If the rubber boots on these parts are deteriorated, dirt and grime can get in there and wear the parts out. I replace these parts with a jack and jackstands and seperators designed to seperate the different tapered fittings. Autozone has a loan-a-tool program, so you can get the tools you need there. I am assuming you have the basic handtools.
If replacing control arm bushings just be sure to use a spring compressor or chain the spring down so it can't jump out and injure you(your most valuable asset). When replacing tie-rod ends, just get a good mark on the old one before you start taking it off and count the number of turns it takes to get it out. Then lay the old one down next to the new one do a comparison check. When you put the new one back on just count the turns. Then you can drive it to an alignment shop and have the alignment done. You will save money on parts and labor by replacing the worn parts yourself.
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Originally Posted by keraf
Just had a tire rotate & balance & the front passenger tire was worn on the inside. Techs showed me some play in that wheel/linkage that they diagnosed as a worn idler arm & pitman arm. Seemed much more play and wear on the passenger than the driver side. My questions are:
(1) why would worn idler/pitman arms cause more alignment/wear problems on one side and not the other?
(2) why would both idler & pitman arms wear and need replacing at same time? Is that common?
(3) any tricks/gotchas to be aware of on this? I probably will have it done rather than attempting myself as I have no lift, tools, etc. for this.
(4) anything else that should be done while in there?
Thanks.
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