Steering: Testing and Inspection

32 11 ... Notes On Checking Steering Backlash On Vehicles With Rack-and-pinion Steering







NOTE:
The evaluation "steering backlash" is made usually when the front axle is raised, where the track rod is angled.
The force introduced via the track rod is divided into a horizontal force and a vertical force relieving the thrust member (1) against the spring (2).
The steering box is depressurized on account of no hydraulic assistance due to engine standstill and is thus not preloaded.
The play created in this way is incorrectly referred to as steering backlash.

3 = Rack







Solution:
1. Check the tie rod backlash only in loaded condition or in the design position.
2. Checking with front axle raised:
- To evaluate the backlash of the tie rod bearings on the steering box side, it is necessary to pressurize the steering box via its servo system.
- The combustion engine must be running during hydraulically assisted steering for this purpose
- For electro-hydraulic steering servo systems, the ignition must be on
- In the case of solely electric steering servo, the ignition should also be switched on so that the steering shaft is subjected to load.







Desired state:
The steering must be backlash-free in all components.