I found some play in my idler arm. I plan on replacing the idler arm myself, but will I also need to get a front end alignment done also? Thanks in advance.

Austin
2003 F150 Supercrew FX4

 

HOw many miles are on the truck. When was the last one? If there is play there than there might be play somewhere else. Have you checked your tierod ends or upper and lower ball joints?

 

113,000 miles on the truck. Had some front end damage from a wreck at about 65,000 miles and had it done then. I had a co-worker who is also a mechanic get under the truck while I rocked the tires back and forth and he checked the other components for any play. All else appeared to be good.

 

I would do it just for the simple fact that its been 65000 miles. Your tires will thank you. Does the truck see any dirt at all. Everything down to the gravel roads. I know im MT we have to get it done every 30,000 due to the pot holes and such.

The money the alignment is worth is small compared to tires that wear wrong. As far as if it needs to be done becuase of the idler. I would say no. But i could be wrong. Somebody will correct me im sure if i am.

 

Thanks, I'll get it done.

 

Probally the better call in the long run. Are your tires new?

 

No, BFGoodrich AT/KO roughly 47,000 miles. I hope I can get 60,000 out of them.

 

WEll if you do this it will deffintly help them on there way. And if not.... well then its done so that when you replace them you wont have to.