I just recently put all new shocks on my '02 Blazer and also replaced the idler arm. Since then the front end seems sort of "loose". Even at slower speeds on bumpy roads the front end seems to drift. The best way I can describe it is a seemingly brief loss of control, then regains its balance.

One question that I have is.... can you tighten the retention bolts on the shocks too much so that it causes a problem?

Perhaps it's not the shocks at all and maybe has something to do with the idler arm but I really don't know at this point.

 

I would lean more towards the idler arm being at fault than the shocks. Shocks dampen suspension travel, not steering motion so I can't really see how they would have caused the problem. They more likely have smoothed out the suspension so you now can feel the steering better. Either that or you now have done this work and are more critical of how your truck drives/rides; now noticing more things.

 

Did you level the center link when you replaced the idler arm? If the center link is not level, it causes "bump steer". The mounting holes in the idler arm are slightly larger than the bolts which allows you to move it up and down slightly. Toe also changes when leveling the center link, which can also affect handling, did you get a wheel alignment?

 

I didn't level the center link or get an alignment but was wondering if that might be the issue. I just took the old idler arm out and put the new one in its place. Been a while since I've had a vehicle to work on and never did an idler arm before so may I ask..... how would I go about leveling the center link?

 

Raise the front wheels off the ground and support the vehicle by the frame. Turn the wheels so they are straight ahead. You don't have to remove the wheels, but it makes it easier to get in there and work if you do. Measure from each end of the center link straight up to the frame. Take your measurements from the same point on each side. The center of the inner tie rod stud works well as a reference point. The measurement should be within 1/16" side to side. To adjust, loosen the idler arm bolts and move the center link up or down, then torque the idler arm mounting bolts to 79 ft lbs. Provided all suspension and steering linkage parts are good, a front wheel alignment will get you back in good shape.

 

My Blazer just failed inspection. The mechanic said the ball joints and idler arm need replacing. Unlike you, Darklink, I don't feel any play in the steering while driving. May I ask why you replaced the idler arm in the first place? What are the symptoms of a need to replace an idler arm? It seems your loose steering occurred after replacing the idler arm, not before.

I have other related issues which I will address in a new thread.