Very good point....the idler arm joint is a bit difficult to get the grease gun hose on to it; I had not thought of that as I just do the idler arm joint along with the others.

 

I had a ball joint go bad at 100,000 miles. Changed all four and idler arm. Get it all done at one time then only one front end alignment to do.

 

 

Bringing this Thread back to the top.........


So, looks like my wife's 95 Blazer (under 110k miles) is in need of steering component replacement.


With the front of the vehicle up on stands, I can wiggle the wheel (either side) back and forth about 1/4 to 5/16 inch (give or take a little).


It looks that a bit of the "play" is internal of the steering box.......... is that adjustable? Or, is there some small normal movement within the specs of the steering box?


Lastly, it looks as if the consensus is to replace all four b-joints, all tie rod ends and the idler arm. ........... so, are there any recommended on-line sources?

 

Rockauto.com and please please only use moog or OEM, dont cheap out unless you like changing them

 

Although it has been years (and I mean a long time) since I've done any front-end work on a GM product, this looks fairly straight forward. Is there any tips or "gotcha" things I need to be aware of? Is there anything else that should be replaced?


I realize an alignment will be needed.


The oil line assembly over to the remote oil filter is leaking ...... what part will I be looking for?

 

You're better off checking the steering components while the truck is on the ground, under load. Get her to turn the wheel back and forth while you watch for play. Pay special attention to the pitman arm, idler arm and rag joint of the steering shaft. The box can be adjusted but its recommended you pull it out and do it in a vise. If your adjust it too much it will cause it to bind.

 

On my 2000 I replaced the, idler arm, pitman arm, inner tie rod ends, outer tie rod ends, tie rod sleeves, and ball joints. I used all Moog, ACDelco, and Raybestos pro grade.