Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the wheels not being worked on.
* Wrench set (metric): You'll need various sizes, likely including a socket wrench and possibly a box-end wrench for tight spaces.
* Ball joint separator (pickle fork or similar): This is likely needed to separate the idler arm from the pitman arm. A ball joint press is better, but more expensive.
* Hammer: Might be needed to help with the ball joint separator.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Soak the idler arm mounting bolts beforehand to help loosen them.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening the new idler arm to the correct specification (consult your repair manual).
* New idler arm: Make sure you get the correct replacement part for your specific year and model S10.
* Repair manual (highly recommended): A Chilton's or Haynes manual will provide specific instructions and torque specifications for your truck.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from injury.
Steps (General Outline - Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park the truck on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Raise the truck using the jack and secure it on jack stands.
2. Disconnect the Battery: This prevents accidental shorts.
3. Locate the Idler Arm: It's typically located on the driver's side of the frame, near the steering linkage.
4. Disconnect the Idler Arm: This usually involves removing the nut and bolt securing it to the frame and separating it from the pitman arm. Use penetrating oil liberally beforehand. The ball joint separator will likely be necessary here. Be careful not to damage the pitman arm.
5. Remove the Old Idler Arm: Once separated, carefully remove the old idler arm.
6. Install the New Idler Arm: Install the new idler arm, ensuring it's properly seated.
7. Reconnect the Idler Arm: Tighten the nut and bolt securing the new idler arm to the frame. Do not overtighten. Use your torque wrench to achieve the correct torque specification from your repair manual.
8. Reconnect the Steering Linkage: Connect the new idler arm to the pitman arm.
9. Lower the Truck: Carefully lower the truck from the jack stands.
10. Check Steering: Start the engine and carefully check the steering for play or unusual sounds. If everything seems right, test drive the truck, but be cautious.
11. Torque Check (if necessary): After a short test drive, re-check the torque on the idler arm mounting bolts.
Important Considerations:
* Year and Model Specifics: The exact procedure may vary slightly depending on the year and model of your S10. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle.
* Steering Alignment: After replacing the idler arm, you will likely need a front-end alignment to ensure proper steering geometry.
This is a simplified overview. Again, refer to a repair manual specific to your S10 for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Attempting this repair without the proper knowledge and tools could result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury. If you are not comfortable with this task, take your truck to a qualified mechanic.
