Steering Linkage Inspection (Idler Arm Inspection)

Tools Required

• J 35999 Spring Scale
• J 42640  Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin
• J 45101  Hub and Wheel Runout Gage

1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Support the vehicle with jackstands. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
2. Remove the engine protection shield. Refer to Engine Protection Shield Replacement .
NOTE: The wheels of the vehicle must be straight ahead and the steering column in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft from the steering gear. Failure to do so will cause the SIR coil assembly to become uncentered, which may cause damage to the coil assembly.
Fig 1: Identifying J 42640
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
3. Position the wheels in a straight-ahead position and install the J 42640  .
4. Install the dial indicator J 45101  between the idler arm and vehicle frame.

   Ensure the gage is at zero before taking a measurement.

Fig 2: Placing J 35999 Near The Relay Rod End Of The Idler Arm
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
5. Place a J 35999 near the relay rod end of the idler arm.
Fig 3: Measuring The Upward Force
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Exert a 110 N.m (25 lb) force upward, and then downward while measuring the total distance the arm moves.
Fig 4: Measuring Idler Arm Movement (Relay Rod End)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
7. If movement exceeds 2 mm (0.078 in) replace the idler arm.
Fig 5: Installing The Dial Indicator At The Idler Arm
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
8. Install the dial indicator at the idler arm.
9. Push the tire inward slowly with one hand to remove any lash.

   Zero out the dial indicator and pull outward in order to take a reading.

Fig 6: Measuring Movement At The Idler Arm Ball Stud
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
10. Allow only 1 mm (0.039 in) of movement at the idler arm ball stud.

    If more than 1 mm exists, replace the idler arm.

11. Install the engine protection shield. Refer to Engine Protection Shield Replacement .
12. Lower the vehicle.