Hey guys, I'm gonna be replacing my idler arm either today or later this week. I was wondering if someone could tell me what tools/sizes that I'll need, will have to pick them up. I have an 03 fx4, with the 5.4, the idler arm has the 2 1/2 inch distance between the bolt centers. Also I plan on getting an alignment afterwards but is one necessary? Let me know if you need any other info. Thanks

 

If you're just replacing the idler arm, an alignment isn't necessary.
You'll need a tie rod separator. You can get one from Advance or Autozone through the loan a tool thing they have. Also, a hammer, wrenches (not sure of sizes), pliers, and grease gun.
I think that's it.

 

21mm socket and ratchet. Torque top 2 bolts to 148ft pounds and the nut to 98ft pounds. Probably don't need a tie rod seperator, idler arm pops out pretty easily.

It's a 15 minute job if you have to search a few minutes for the right tools.

 

Ok cool thanks guys

 

Mine was a bitch and a half. I used a pickle fork, a block of wood, and a five lb hammer to get it out.

 

Now that you mention it I did use a pickle fork.

 

I got a pitman puller for 10 bucks. Works great for that and ball joints

 

I love pickles! And I just replaced mine this weekend. Took maybe 20 minutes. I have a steering stabilizer so added an extra 5 minutes to remove the bracket.

 

I've got a pitman arm that refuses to come off. Broke 2 pullers and spent 45 minutes beating the tar out of it with a 4 lb mini sledge. Even removed the gear box to get a good angle on it. Thinking about throwing some heat on it but I don't want to ruin the seals. Looks like I'll be spraying PB every day for a week or so and try, try again....

 

Just wanted to get back and let everyone know the replacement was a success haha. It wasn't too bad- we used the 21mm sockets and pickle fork and not much else. The hardest part was taking off my skid plate because one bolt rusted and finding a grease gun lol