GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Idler Arm Replacement Commercial

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller


    Object Number: 310069  Size: MH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the idler arm assembly (7) from the frame.
  3. Remove the nut from the idler arm ball stud.

  4. Object Number: 497235  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not attempt to disconnect a steering linkage joint by driving a wedge between the joint and the attached part. Seal damage may result which will cause premature failure of the joint.

  5. Use the J 24319-B in order to remove the idler arm from the relay rod.
  6. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  7. Inspect the ball stud seal for cuts or other damage.
  8. Clean the following components:
  9. • The threads on the ball stud
    • The threads in the ball stud nut

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    • J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

    Object Number: 310069  Size: MH
  1. Install the idler arm frame support (2) to the frame.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Tighten the bolts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 40 N·m (30 lb ft).

  5. Install the relay rod to the idler arm ball stud.
  6. Ensure that the seal is on the stud.


    Object Number: 240740  Size: SH
  7. Tighten the J 29193 or the J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft) in order to seat the tapers.
  8. Remove the J 29193 or the J 29194 .
  9. Install the prevailing torque nut to the idler arm ball stud.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 90 N·m (66 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Adjust the toe-in, if needed. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.

Idler Arm Replacement Motorhome

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller


    Object Number: 310071  Size: MH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the idler arm assembly (12) from the support assembly (2).
  3. Remove the nut from the idler arm ball stud.

  4. Object Number: 497235  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not attempt to disconnect a steering linkage joint by driving a wedge between the joint and the attached part. Seal damage may result which will cause premature failure of the joint.

  5. Use the J 24319-B in order to remove the idler arm from the relay rod.
  6. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  7. Inspect the ball stud seal for cuts or other damage.
  8. Clean the following components:
  9. • The threads on the ball stud
    • The threads in the ball stud nut

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    • J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

    Object Number: 310071  Size: MH
  1. Install the idler arm (12) to the support assembly (2).
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Tighten the idler arm to the support assembly.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the idler arm to the support assembly to 170 N·m (125 lb ft).

  5. Install the relay rod to the idler arm ball stud.
  6. Ensure that the seal is on the stud.


    Object Number: 240740  Size: SH
  7. Tighten the J 29193 or the J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft) in order to seat the tapers.
  8. Remove the J 29193 or the J 29194 .
  9. Install the prevailing torque nut to the idler arm ball stud.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 90 N·m (66 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Adjust the toe-in, if needed. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.