Steering Wheel - Off Center Adjustment Procedure

STEERING
ST002-01

September 21, 2001

Title:
STEERING WHEEL OFF CENTER ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE

Models:
All '02 Models

Introduction

This bulletin provides the recommended adjustment procedure for correcting an off-center steering wheel. This procedure does not require the use of a 4-wheel alignment machine.

Applicable Vehicles
^ All 2002 model year Lexus vehicles.





Required Tools & Material





Warranty Information

Applicable Warranty*:

This repair is covered under the Lexus Comprehensive Warranty. This warranty is in effect for 12 months or 20,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle's in-service date.

* Warranty application is limited to correction of a problem based upon a customer's specific complaint.

Adjustment Procedure

1. Inspect steering wheel off center.





A. Apply masking tape to the top center of the steering wheel and steering column upper cover.

B. Drive the vehicle in a straight line for 330 feet (100 meters), at a constant speed of 35 mph (56km/h), and hold the steering wheel to maintain the course.





C. Draw a line on the masking tape as shown in the illustration.

D. Turn the steering wheel to its straight position.

HINT:
Use the upper surface of the steering wheel, steering spoke and SRS airbag line (when present) as a reference.





E. Draw a new line on the masking tape of the steering wheel as shown in the illustration.

F. Measure the distance (in millimeters) between the 2 lines drawn on the steering wheel.

HINT:
Make a note of this measurement.

2. Determine the amount and direction of tie rod adjustment.





A. Use the measurement made in 1 (F) to determine the amount of adjustment necessary to the tie rod ends.





B. The direction of adjustment is shown.

3. Adjust steering angle.

A. Lift up the vehicle.

B. Draw a line on the RH and LH tie rod and rack ends where it can easily be seen.

C. Measure the distance from RH and LH tie rod ends to the rack end screws.

NOTE:
^ Measure the RH side and LH side
^ Make a note of the measured values

D. Remove the RH and LH boot clips from the rack boots.

E. Loosen the RH and LH lock nuts.





F. Turn the RH and LH rack end by the same amount (but in different directions) according to the steering angle. (See illustration.)

C. Tighten the RH and LH lock nuts to the specified torque.

NOTE:
Make sure that the difference in length of the threaded portion of the RH and LH tie rod ends and rack ends are within 1.5 mm (0.059 in.).

H. Install the RH and LH boot clips.