how to check pitman and idler arm

[barryv]

hi, whats the correct way to check pitman and idler arm while its on the car,thanks for the help

[Chryco Psycho]

the idler arm should have no vertical play , the ends into the center link on both arms should be tight & have no play vertically or side to side

[barryv]

thanks

[Changin Gears]

I like to get someone to move the steering wheel back and forth a little why I look at all the joints for unwanted movement.

[426HEMI]

Could be either something loose or the steering gear play.

[burdar]

It is best to have someone move the steering wheel back and forth.  Then you can grab ahold of all the different connections and "feel" if there is play between the two parts.  That is much easier than trying to "see" if things are loose.

[Super Blue 72]

   When someone is moving the steering wheel, you can be under the car looking for any play and put your hands on the different connection point as burdar pointed out.  When someone is steering the car for you, the extra leverage from the steering box moving everything will show any vertical movement of the idler/pitman arms and feeling will show any loose horizontal movement.

[barryv]

thanks for replies

[bb71challenger]

I always like to put the cars front end up on jack stands (stands on frame) so that while I am down there I can wiggle the tires and see if any of the front end parts have slop. I agree with the others on having someone move the steering wheel when checking pitman/idler arms.