idler arm

[DSMik3]

Does anybody know how difficult it is to replace an idler arm on a 98 gsx?

 

[pauleyman]

What is an idler arm? The typical definition is a steering part which dsms don't have.

 

[DSMik3]

What is an idler arm? The typical definition is a steering part which dsms don't have.

Well im looking at this 98 gsx for sale and the guy says it needs an idler arm.

 

[SrKegler]

No idler arm on our cars. Hopefully he means a tie rod end. Not difficult if its the outer end. Inner tie rod is a lot more difficult. Worse case is it needs a new rack and pinion.

If you're not mechanically inclined, you could probably only do the outer tie rod end. Other repairs are tough and expensive at a repair shop.

If possible, take it to a shop to find out exactly whats wrong with it and get an estimate on repair costs.

 

[pauleyman]

Does he mean timing belt arm? You need to get clarification. You're asking for a solution when you dont know the problem.

 

[90gsxProjectCruiser]

The previous owner probably meant tie rod. easy to check to see what you need. jack up the front end and put stands under it to hold it up. Grab the front tire on both SIDES, and shake it side to side.(like your trying to turn the tire.) if you can feel play in the steering then you have excessive play somewhere and you could most likely see where the play is coming from if you get under it to look. It needs to be fixed sooner then later. check both sides driver and passenger.
biggest thing when doing a tie rod is alignment. you will have to count the threads on the old one, then make sure the new one is in the same spot. you will most likely want to get an alignment done after