GM 12540218 Idler Assembly, Installation Kit

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To make sure that the front wheels maintain their alignment, you use a steering linkage to connect the steering gear with them. It encompasses various constituents like the Pitman arm, idler arm, relay rod, tie-rods and steering damper. The Pitman arm moves to and fro on the relay rod from its attachment on the steering gear shaft. On the other end is where the relay rod is supported by an idler arm. The tie-rod assemblies transmit this motion of the relay rod to the steering knuckles. For inspection of steering system: set wheels straight ahead and lock steering wheel; jack up one side of vehicle and attach dial indicator to measure any play in system; if it exceeds specified limit inspect for loosened or damaged components which need replacement; also observe torn ball stud boots, frozen joints & bent or damaged linkage components. To remove and install a tie-rod loosen wheel lug nuts, jack up vehicle then remove wheel, separate tie-rod end from steering knuckle using two-jaw puller, remove nut holding inner tie-rod end to relay rod itself but before unscrewing it measure distance and record it-if part needs replacement lubricate new tie-rod end and adjust it according to recorded dimension-connect outer tie-rod end to steering knuckle again tightening nut used before while inserting new cotter pin-insert inner tie-rod end into relay rod tighten nut holding it there lastly tighten clamp nuts then lower car down again. For removing idler arm loose nut then pry 2-jaw puller apart this will disengage it from relay rod-after taking out idler arm to frame bolts carefully install another one tightening bolts completely-take idler arm ball stud and fix it securely within relay rod by tightening its respective nut till just about hand tightness becomes possible then go ahead with complete application of force originating torque wrench on said fastener as much as required ensuring that nut is tightened to specified torque Installation is the reverse of removal, ensuring the nuts are tightened to the specified torque. Remove Pitman arm from relay rod using puller. Before reassembling, mark Pitman arm and steering gear shaft for proper alignment during installation. Take out Pitman arm nut and washer followed by removing entire thing with a help of a puller. Look at threads on ball stud along with any sealants sealing them again wipe down thread well.