Steering Wheel: Testing and Inspection

Steering Wheel Play





With the wheels in the straight-ahead position, gently turn the steering wheel to the left and right and check that the play is within specification.

Play: 5-2O mm (0.2-0.79 in)

Note: If the play exceed specification, either the steering joints are worn or the backlash of the steering gear is excessive.

Looseness or Play of the Steering Wheel





Move the steering wheel in the directions 1, 2, and 3 to check for column bearing wear, steering shaft joint play steering wheel looseness and column looseness.

Steering Wheel Effort





1. With the vehicle on a hard level surface, move the steering wheel to put the wheels in the straight-ahead position.





2. Start the engine and warm the power steering fluid to 50-60 deg. C (122-140 deg. F).





3. Attach a pull scale to the outer of the steering wheel, and then, starting with the wheels in the straight-ahead position, check the steering effort required to turn the steering wheel to the left and to the right.

Steering wheel effort: 38 N (3.7 kg, 8.1 lb) or less [during one turn of the steering wheel]

4. If not within specification, check the following: fluid level, air in system, fluid leakage at hose or connections, function of oil pump and gear box, and tire pressure.