Idler arm inspection

[goser]

I was checking the front end components yesterday while bleeding the brakes, and when I had the right front wheel off the ground I noticed quite a bit of play in the idler arm. I know this is the wrong way to check the idler arm, but I've found contradictory information on how to do it the right way... when checking for movement with the 25lbs force, should the truck be on its wheels on the ground with the suspension normally loaded, or should it be off the ground with the wheels hanging free?

[gmtech1]

Have the vehicle unloaded(in the air). Idler is probably worn, I would also replaced the piman arm. If it's an S10 blazer it's a safe bet they're both worn out.

[MT-2500]

Originally Posted by goser

I was checking the front end components yesterday while bleeding the brakes, and when I had the right front wheel off the ground I noticed quite a bit of play in the idler arm. I know this is the wrong way to check the idler arm, but I've found contradictory information on how to do it the right way... when checking for movement with the 25lbs force, should the truck be on its wheels on the ground with the suspension normally loaded, or should it be off the ground with the wheels hanging free?

As said with the front end off the ground.

Year make and modle?
Was there and play in tie rodends and ball joints and steering gear?
All of the ways you can find or figure out.
Check idler arm for.

Up and down and sideways and check all and stud for spring loaded movement.

I always check it both ways and put a big pair of chanel locks on the ball/stud and see if the/ball stud has any spring loaded play and then with front end off of the ground shake the tires side ways for any up and down movement n it.
Also shake/turn steerng wheel with whees on ground ad watch for any play in it and also watch for any movenment/play in steering gear or rack and poion.

And also unload ball joints and tie rod ends pressure and check for any extra movement there.

Let us know what you find in movement.

[goser]

Thanks, I thought it was strange that I didn't get any movement with the wheels on the ground, but that was what the moog inspection page seemed to imply.

And yes, the pitman arm is worn too... the stud moved over 1/4" when I pumped grease into it.

Hard to believe the truck passed safety inspection two months ago.

[Scrapper]

Originally Posted by goser

Thanks, I thought it was strange that I didn't get any movement with the wheels on the ground, but that was what the moog inspection page seemed to imply.

And yes, the pitman arm is worn too... the stud moved over 1/4" when I pumped grease into it.

Hard to believe the truck passed safety inspection two months ago.

yes when you greased pitman arm it tightened up a little but as the grease wears it will be loose again if your going to replace pit/arm and idler also. and i guess you looked at tie rods,upper control arm bushings,shocks, forgot to mention ball joints?

good luck............