After prolonged use, steering components can fail. It is important that the steering system be kept in good working condition for obvious safety reasons. It is your job to find and correct any system malfunctions quickly and properly

Steering Linkage Service
Any area containing a ball-and-socket joint is subjected to extreme movements and dirt. The combination of these two will cause the ball-and- socket joint to wear. When your inspection finds worn steering linkage components, they must be replaced with new components. Two areas of concern are the idler arm and the tie-rod ends.

IDLER ARM SERVICE.- A worn idler arm causes play in the steering wheel. The front wheels, mostly the right wheel, can turn without causing movement of the steering wheel. This is a very common wear point in the steering linkage and should be checked carefully.

To check an idler arm for wear, grab the outer end of the arm (end opposite the frame) and force it up and down by hand. Note the amount of movement at the end of the arm and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications. Typically, an idler arm should NOT move up and down more than 1/ 4 inch.

The replacement of a worn idler arm is as follows: Separate the outer end of the arm from the center link. A ball joint fork or puller can be used to force the idler arms joint from the center link.

With the outer end removed from the center link, unbolt and remove the idler arm from the frame.

Install the new idler arm in reverse order of removal. Make sure that all fasteners are torqued to manufacturer's specifications. Install a new cotter pin and bend it properly.

TIE-ROD END SERVICE.- A worn tie-rod end will also cause steering play. When movement is detected between the ball stud and the socket, replacement is necessary.

The replacement of a worn tie-rod end is as follows:

Separate the tie rod from the steering knuckle or center link. As with the idler arm, a ball joint fork or puller can be used.

With the tie rod removed from the steering knuckle or center link, measure tie-rod length. This will allow you to set the new tie rod at about the same length as the old one.

NOTE

The alignment of the front wheel is altered when the length of the tie rod is changed.

Loosen and unscrew the tie-rod adjustment sleeve from the tie-rod end. Turn the new tie-rod end into the adjustment sleeve until it is the exact length of the old tie rod.

Install the tie-rod ball stud into the center link or steering knuckle. Tighten the fasteners to manufacturer's specifications. Install new cotter pins and bend correctly. Tighten the adjustment sleeve and check steering action.