Problem removing Idler Arms
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Rileysowner
Topic author - I plan to be buried in my van
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Problem removing Idler Arms
Here is the problem. I loosened the nut attaching the idler and popped it loose, but now I can't get the nut the rest of the way off. The stud keeps spinning. Nor can I tighten it, same problem. I have tried to get it to seated again so I could loosen it all the way, but no success so far. Any suggestions?
"I have a torque wrench and I am not afraid to use it."
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
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ihatemybike
- I plan to be buried in my van
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- Joined: Sun Jan 06, 2008 6:57 pm
- Location: Elgin, IL
Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
Big channel locks and squeeze, tighten the nut back down. Remove nut completely, then separate.
Aaron
2005 Astro (Gandalf) - AWD, 4.3L, 3.42, 130k+ miles
1997 Astro (Grumpy - $250 Rally Van) - AWD, 4.3L, 3.42, LSD, 2" lift, 31" tires, 335k+ orig engine, $30 eBay fuel pump
Prev Astros:99,97,00,94,87,86
2005 Astro (Gandalf) - AWD, 4.3L, 3.42, 130k+ miles
1997 Astro (Grumpy - $250 Rally Van) - AWD, 4.3L, 3.42, LSD, 2" lift, 31" tires, 335k+ orig engine, $30 eBay fuel pump
Prev Astros:99,97,00,94,87,86
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Rileysowner
Topic author - I plan to be buried in my van
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- Joined: Sat Sep 09, 2006 7:14 pm
- Location: Exeter ON
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Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
I tried that. The nut will not tighten or loosen. Of course I needed to get this done tonight. I suspect that is why it went wrong. If I had days and days, it would have been done in a few hours.
"I have a torque wrench and I am not afraid to use it."
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
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Rileysowner
Topic author - I plan to be buried in my van
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- Joined: Sat Sep 09, 2006 7:14 pm
- Location: Exeter ON
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Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
A friend of mine suggested using my impact wrench. That got it moving, but I couldn't get the bolts out of the frame, so I soaked them in release-all and will see another day.
While I was under there I need an alignment as there is some pretty nasty wear on the inside of the front tires.
While I was under there I need an alignment as there is some pretty nasty wear on the inside of the front tires.
"I have a torque wrench and I am not afraid to use it."
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
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SoCalli V8
- Retired
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Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
When you brake them loose, Make Sure that you Always fit Moog replacements, Because Anything else is just a cheap replacement that will Not last.
`86 V8 Lowered Cargo, extensively modified, shaved bald, wearing the shortest, sluttyest white primer dress....
A British Wanker living in So KarlyFornia.
My Astro tows my toys to Glamis sand dunes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jp2pqjQtpso
First ever canal jump at Glamis http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXZjM84x_Xc
A British Wanker living in So KarlyFornia.
My Astro tows my toys to Glamis sand dunes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jp2pqjQtpso
First ever canal jump at Glamis http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXZjM84x_Xc
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Rileysowner
Topic author - I plan to be buried in my van
- Posts: 1290
- Joined: Sat Sep 09, 2006 7:14 pm
- Location: Exeter ON
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Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
Yes, they are Moog. I purchased them last fall and then being busy and health issues kept me from getting them on. Now the weather it better. My health is better, and I figure it is time to get them on.
"I have a torque wrench and I am not afraid to use it."
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
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Rileysowner
Topic author - I plan to be buried in my van
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- Joined: Sat Sep 09, 2006 7:14 pm
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Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
The frame bolts on that same Idler arm are quite rusty. I have been soaking them in Release-All, but they still don't want to budge.
Edit:
Time and penetrating oil did it, alone with the pipe from my floor jack over the breaker bar I was using. I got it to budge a little, then the impact wrench got it turning. I took it out about a 1/4 inch and hit the threads with penetrating oil as it was still very tight (I could only move it with the breaker bar not the ratchet) I will give it a bit of time, then take them the rest of the way out.
Edit:
Time and penetrating oil did it, alone with the pipe from my floor jack over the breaker bar I was using. I got it to budge a little, then the impact wrench got it turning. I took it out about a 1/4 inch and hit the threads with penetrating oil as it was still very tight (I could only move it with the breaker bar not the ratchet) I will give it a bit of time, then take them the rest of the way out.
"I have a torque wrench and I am not afraid to use it."
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
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Rileysowner
Topic author - I plan to be buried in my van
- Posts: 1290
- Joined: Sat Sep 09, 2006 7:14 pm
- Location: Exeter ON
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Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
Got it done. Man, that idler was worn. I wonder if the other one was replaced while this one was left on, it certainly was much more rusted and nasty looking when I pulled it. Now to the other things on my list, but first an alignment.
"I have a torque wrench and I am not afraid to use it."
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Jim
1997 GMC Safari RWD, Power Windows and Locks, 7 passenger, a/c, rear heat
http://rileysowner.blogspot.com/
Re: Problem removing Idler Arms
I'm just tackling this job, what size bolt is on there.? I tried 17mm & 19mm, then 11/16 & 3/4.
Nothing fits!?
Nothing fits!?
1995 Astro AWD LT