FORMULA, SUPERPRO, FOX Idler Arms

An idler arm is a pivoting support in the steering linkage of vehicles that use a steering box. It helps hold the steering linkage in position as the wheels are turned. Fulcrum's range of idler arms includes replacement idler arms and idler arm kits from trusted suspension brands, designed to suit selected vehicles.

What Is an Idler Arm?

An idler arm is part of the parallelogram steering linkage used on some cars, utes, 4WDs and vans. It's found on vehicles with a steering box rather than rack-and-pinion steering.

In a parallelogram steering linkage, a centre link runs across the vehicle. One end of the centre link connects to the pitman arm on the steering box. The other end is supported by the idler arm, which bolts to the vehicle's frame or subframe.

The idler arm does two main jobs:

• It supports the centre link, holding that end at the correct height.
• It pivots as the steering is turned, allowing the centre link to move as it should.

Idler Arm vs Pitman Arm

The idler arm and the pitman arm sit at opposite ends of the centre link and work together, but they do different jobs:

• The pitman arm connects to the steering box and moves the centre link when you turn the steering wheel.
• The idler arm sits on the opposite side, supporting the centre link and pivoting to follow its movement.

Because the idler arm has a pivot built into it, it's generally more prone to wear than the pitman arm. On some vehicles, the idler arm and pitman arm may need to be replaced at the same time.

Why Idler Arms Wear

Idler arms move every time you turn the steering wheel, so they wear gradually with age and use. Other factors can also affect how quickly an idler arm wears, including:

• Road conditions, such as rough roads and off-road driving
• Lack of lubrication, on idler arms fitted with grease fittings
• Damage, for example from an impact
• Age, particularly on older vehicles where the original idler arm has been in service for many years

If your vehicle's idler arm has grease fittings, follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule for lubrication.

Signs Your Idler Arm May Need Replacing

A worn idler arm can contribute to:

• Steering that feels loose, or has extra play before the wheels respond
• Clunking or knocking noises from the front of the vehicle when turning or driving over bumps
• The vehicle wandering or pulling to one side
• Uneven tyre wear

These symptoms can also be caused by other steering or suspension components. Steering parts are critical to safety, so if you notice any change in how your steering feels, have your steering and suspension inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

Idler Arm Replacement vs Idler Arm Bushes

When an idler arm is worn, there are generally two options:

• Replace the whole idler arm, with a complete replacement idler arm or idler arm kit.
• Replace the idler arm bushes, on vehicles where the idler arm pivots on bushes that can be replaced separately.

The right option depends on your vehicle and the condition of the idler arm. If the arm itself is worn or damaged, a complete replacement may be needed. If the arm is in good condition and only the bushes are worn, replacing the bushes may be an option. Fulcrum also stocks a separate range of idler arm bushes.

If you're unsure which option suits your vehicle, have your steering inspected by a qualified technician.

Choosing the Right Idler Arm

Idler arms are designed to suit particular vehicles, so choosing the right one starts with your make and model. Before you buy, check:

• Vehicle fitment: use the vehicle search to find idler arms that suit your make, model and year.
• Idler arm or kit: check whether the product is a complete idler arm or an idler arm kit, and what's included.
• Related components: consider whether other steering parts, such as the pitman arm or steering bushes, also need attention.

Full fitment details, specifications and inclusions are listed on each product page. If you can't find an idler arm for your vehicle, or you're unsure which one you need, Fulcrum's team can help.

Idler Arm Replacement and Fitting

An idler arm is part of your vehicle's steering system, so it needs to be fitted correctly. Idler arm replacement involves supporting the vehicle safely and disconnecting part of the steering linkage. If you're not confident working on steering components, have the idler arm fitted by a qualified technician. A wheel alignment is recommended after replacing an idler arm to make sure the steering and wheels are set up correctly.

With Fulcrum's Click & Fit service, you can buy your idler arm online and have it delivered to your nearest Fulcrum workshop for installation. Fulcrum also offers a free suspension check and wheel alignments.

Buy Idler Arms Online from Fulcrum

You can shop Fulcrum's idler arm range online and use the vehicle search to find the right idler arm for your make and model.

If you're unsure which parts suit your vehicle, Fulcrum's team can help you choose. Fulcrum also stocks a wider range of steering parts, including idler arm bushes and drag link bushes, so you can replace other worn steering components at the same time.