First Gen 4Runner Gets a New Idler Arm

I walk through how I replaced the idler arm on my IFS Toyota 4Runner. It's a simple process. I also show how they fail and a couple methods to repairing them. Check out 4Crawler.com for more Toyota info.

[@TheAlexManVideos]

The idler arm is the exception that makes the rule. The Duralast idler arm has a much thicker shaft diameter than the OEM one, it is more resistant to bending. Both OEM and Duralast come with plastic bushings, but a few aftermarket companies make bronze bushings for the Duralast part.

[@TheTrasker]

Thanks, good video, will go out at change the idler arm on my Hilux right now.

[@alimodiandude]

TheAlexManVideos, Tnx again, I came back to video to check if I need to jack up truck to do idler and this helped! Joe Jodee, duralast FA5040 is mentioned on 4crawler's website as well as on this San Diego Off Road Innovations LLC

[@gregwilcox55]

Love your videos! Can you do one of replacing fuel injectors? :)

[@michaeltrubman]

Thanks! Great video. So the vehicle doesn't have to be off the ground?

[@patrickblackburn8955]

Do I have to change the pitman arm if I change the idler arm?

[@jarmerap]

What symptoms were you having that made you realize that there was play in the idler?
My 87 just doesn't feel right when turning at slow speed and when on the freeway, it seems to be floaty.

[@N2Th3Stars]

Can you please list the tools you used for doing this? The idler arm on my 4runner broke yesterday and I need to replace it. Just want to make sure I have everything. Thank you!

[@brettfrost1179]

I have bought the jaws, what does it actually take to disassemble the final step?

[@trevormarcus4575]

How do you get the new idler arm to sink down?

[@joejodee3394]

I know you have compared OEM to Aftermarket How is the duralast idler arm should I go with OEM like the ball joints Thanks

[@gwolf1942]

cool it looks like it,s is good to go now.

[@DropkickIrish]

Hey man, thanks a million for this video. I just moved to Colorado from NY and bought a 95 4runner that needs a new idler arm and this has saved me literally hundreds of dollars that I barely have in my last amount of savings. My question is, what was that tool you used at 3:40? I need to change it tomorrow so I can start a job. Could you let me know asap? Thanks again man!!

[@TheAlexManVideos]

It is called a pitman arm puller. I bought it from Advance Auto Parts for under $20. It is designed to pull pitman arms (obviously) but I use it on balljoints and tie-rods too. Works like a charm. Glad I was able to help you out, good luck with your new project!

[@DropkickIrish]

TheAlexManVideos Thanks for getting back to me so fast. I have to change the Pitman arm next, so this came in real handy. Thanks again, man.

[@toyotalover1]

Thanks bro.

[@damiansmith7786]

would the idler arm cause your steering to have allot of play? have a 88 4runner and the steering wheel has allot of play when driving

[@TheAlexManVideos]

+Damian Smith It certainly would add some play to the steering. Check all components though. If this is worn other parts may be worn out too.

[@wheezin_mtnbkr3576]

Damian Smith You want 1" of play in the steering box, so do not try to remove that. With the wheel straight and the engine on, you sbould ve abke to gently wiggle 1" of play before feeling resistance. That is in spec.

[@wheezin_mtnbkr3576]

*should be able to

[@radfourrunner8840]

Thanks for sharing this, alexman. -rad4runner (yotatech)

[@patrickchurray6672]

Wtf is the damn torque spec

[@beef5030]

I have the Haynes manual right in front of me. pg 10A-2 for anyone wanting to check it also.
pitman arm to relay rod 55-79 lb-ft
relay rod mounting nuts (idler arm end) 37-50 ft-lb
relay rod mounting nuts (pitman arm end) 55-79 ft-lb