Hard Steering
Symptom TroubleshootingHard Steering
1. Check the power assist.
Is the initial turning load more than 29 N (3.0 kgf, 6.6 lbf)?
YES - Go to step 2.
NO - Power assist is OK.
2. Connect the P/S joint adapter (pump), P/S joint adapter (hose), and pressure gauge T/N 07406-0010001, T/N 07406-001000A or T/N 07406-001A101 to the pump.
3. Measure steady-state fluid pressure from the pump at idle.
Is the pressure 1,470 kPa (15 kgf/cm2, 213 psi) or less?
YES - Go to step 4.
NO - Go to step 8.
4. Measure the pump relief pressure at idle.
Is the pressure 7,940 - 8,630 kPa (81 - 88 kgf/cm2, 1,150 - 1,250 psi) or more?
YES - Go to step 5.
NO - Go to step 9.
5. With a spring scale, measure the power assist in both directions, to the left and to the right.
Are the two measurements within 5.0 N (0.51 kgf, 1.12 lbf) of each other?
YES - Go to step 6.
NO - Go to step 11.
6. Measure the fluid pressure with both pressure gauge valves open (if so equipped), while turning the steering wheel fully to the left and fully to the right.
Is the pressure 7,940 - 8,630 kPa (81 - 88 kgf/cm2, 1,150 - 1,250 psi) or more?
YES - Go to step 7.
NO - Faulty gearbox.
7. Adjust the rack guide, and retest.
Is the steering OK?
YES - Repair is completed.
NO - Faulty gearbox.
8. Check the outlet and return hose and lines between the pump and the gearbox for clogging and deformation.
Are the lines clogged or deformed?
YES - Repair or replace the lines.
NO - Faulty valve body unit.
9. Disassemble the pump.
10. Check the flow control valve for smooth movement and leaks.
Is the flow control valve OK?
YES - Faulty pump assembly.
NO - Faulty flow control valve.
11. Check the cylinder line A and B for deformation.
Are the A or B lines deformed?
YES - Replace the deformed fine.
NO - Go to step 12.
12. Check for a bent rack shaft or misadjusted rack guide (too tight).
Is the rack shaft bent or the rack guide adjusted too tight?
YES - Replace the rack shaft, or readjust the rack guide.
NO - Faulty valve body unit.