I was told by the place that put my tires on that they couldn't do an alignment because I needed new idle arms. Is there a way to tell if they are going bad?

 

Grab ahold of it, and shake it.... if you can move it, it's bad.

Nother method, but, requires a friend. Turn the key to the run position, but, do NOT start the motor. Have a friend move the steering wheel back and forth, just to the point that it starts to influence the front tires. Look for the parts that move that DONT move the parts the are attached to.... (look for the slop) that will give you an idea of what parts need replacing.

 

Another good synopsis of the troubleshooting steps Brian! I've said about the same thing in a few other, older threads.

 

Those things were so under-designed by GM that it's a good bet that if it's 11 years old, it's bad. Mine was toast at around 80K miles and I've always maintained good tires, balance, alignment, etc.The good news is that the replacement industry fixed the design and any decent name brand you buy will be a much more beefier part.

 

By the way...I noticed you said idler armS. If they're trying to sell you two, you need to find a new shop. There's only one on the truck.

 

That was just my stupidity. I meant idler arm.
Thank you so much for all of your tips.

 

I heard rumors that the idler arm from a half-ton truck would work as a replacement as well. Any truth to that? Or, is it simply the same peice??