Steering problem, need a solution

[arcteryx]

I have noticed over the last week two that it sounds like my PS is going out. Well, while trying to do an ARB front bumper install (another thread), I noticed my tie rod end is separated from the relay rod. This is on the PS in front. Do I need a new end, relay rod or just bang/tighten it back on there?

TIA.

 

[Bogo]

It all depends on what got worn in the process. Loose parts wear faster, and that hole may have gotten enlarged beyond usable. No, I don't know the limits...

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

Eeeep! I'd say you need a new idler arm, that may be the whole problem...

 

[x factor]

Replace the idler arm! Consider yourself lucky it has not come apart yet. I recomend not driving it untill it is replaced.

 

[arcteryx]

Thanks for the reply. I will rebuild it using this Idler Arm Maintenance

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

That link is about replacing the bushings, you have a blown out ball joint, which I'm pretty sure is not serviceable... You need a new arm.

 

[arcteryx]

Ok, I see what you are saying, that makes sense. I will order a new one. Is there a better brand than OEM?

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

There are some beefy aftermarket ones out there, but I can't come up with a name off the top of my head...

 

[cavemancaleb]

total chaos makes an uber cool idler arm, im not sure who else makes beefed up ones, if there were other company's that did that would be awesome, i would be really interested to find out if there were any others considering the total chaos one is $300 or more.

 

[arcteryx]

After some further searching and reading, particularly this Untitled Document I purchased a 2nd gen Duralast FA5040 idler arm from the Zone today. $35.99 + tax with a lifetime warranty. I didn't get a chance to install it, but will do it tomorrow and report back.

Assuming it goes on well, I will eventually order these brass bushings from SDORI since they state the bushings will fit this particular arm (and some others). This will get it back on the road ASAP and allow me to purchase/install the brass ones at my leisure. I hate being reactive, I strongly prefer proactive!

 

[arcteryx]

Closing the loop on this for others, the 2nd gen idler arm went on the 1st gen without hiccup. Torque for the 3 bolts is 70 ft/lbs and the castle nut is 43 ft/lbs. Pics below show the finished result as well as the part # from Autozone.

Thanks for the help. It does look like I have a leaking gear box though I will replace this sooner than later, depending on how bad the leak is.

 

[Joe_E]

Thanks for the reply. I will rebuild it using this Idler Arm Maintenance

Gotta love the search feature here on MUD.
Replaced my brake pads and while i was shaking the pass. wheel back and forth i noticed the idler arm moving damn near a 1/4 inch sideways. Was hoping there was a write up on rebuilding it. I've noticed my steering was a little wondering lately.