Description: The idler arm is used on
vehicles with conventional suspension systems and parallelogram
steering. This type of suspension and steering arrangement is used
on
virtually all rear-wheel-drive vehicles and
many light trucks. Essentially, the idler arm is a pivoting
support for the steering linkage. The idler arm consists of
a bracket, an arm that connects the bracket to the center link
of the steering linkage, and an internal pivot bearing. A few vehicles use two idler arms.
Purpose:
The
idler arm assists the pitman arm by supporting the
steering linkage as it moves in the direction controlled by the
steering gear.
Maintenance Tips/Suggestions:
The idler
arm should be lubricated at every oil
change. The idler arm, along with other suspension components, should be
inspected annually along with a complete wheel alignment. The most common
vehicle symptoms associated with a worn idler arm include wandering, tire
edge wear, and loose or erratic steering.
Idler arm inspection techniques and specifications vary; have your vehicle
inspected by a qualified service professional.
