idler arm... or more?

[ChocloConQueso]

my 2000 RWD Astro LS has always had an occasional slight pop under the driver side on sharp turns. i knew it was steering and had my mechanic lube it up and take a look.

he says left idler arm. no surprise.

but today it started popping like rice crispies, every bump and every turn i could hear and feel under my feet.

my question is this: i have to work tomorrow and the wife is going to be running the van up to the mechanic. i would prefer to send her over with a van full of store-bought parts because the big retailers often offer longer warranties than his suppliers do, with a broader range of prices...

if i head out to AutoZone or Advance, is the left idler arm all i should grab for this job, or do the symptoms sound like more? is there anything else specific to the Astro i should think about? maybe both idler arms and the pitman to be safe? i can always return what isnt needed..

all suggestions much appreciated!

[jaywoo65]

I just replaced both the right and left on mine. It's a really easy swap. If you take it to a mechanic, should be less then an hour for both.

[ChocloConQueso]

I just replaced both the right and left on mine. It's a really easy swap. If you take it to a mechanic, should be less then an hour for both.

sounds like an easy fix. i am trash with a wrench and wont risk troubleshooting essentials like steering, but an hour labor isnt bad.

what about ball joints?

[jaywoo65]

A lot more labor intensive. I'd do the Idler arms and see how it is at that point.

[smurfbus3]

check the sway bar busing's . my d.d ratles like all hell. have new ones . to cold now to replace

[chevymaher]

what about ball joints?

First thing i be checking. Idler arms do not make alot of noise when they bad ball joints do.

[ChocloConQueso]

thanks all... grabbed the idlers and ball joints. we'll see what she needs tomorrow.

[ChocloConQueso]

needed the ball joints too. hopefully thatll be the end of the steering issues for a while. would rather spend my money on finishing the custom stuff but... all the cool mods dont do much if the car is parked in the driveway.

[Mmusicman]

Both idler arms and ball joints can "pop" on turns... I've had BOTH do it! If the idler arm is bad it is usually easy to see... just wiggle wheel back and forth and you will see it jumping up and down.

The ball joint on the other hand, is not as easy to see or diagnose. One thing is for sure.. if the ball joint is binding.. it can break!

You're being given warning signals. Play it safe!