Steering Gear: Testing and Inspection
STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE INSPECTIONTie-rod End Inspection
1. Inspect the tie-rod end for damage and excessive play.
^ If there are any cracks, replace the tie-rod end.
2. Inspect the boot for cracks.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the tie-rod end boot.
3. Rotate the ball joint 5 times.
4. Measure the rotational torque of the tie-rod end using the SST and a pull scale.
^ If not within the specification, replace the tie rod end.
Standard rotational torque 0.6 - 2.0 Nm (6 - 20 kgf-cm, 5 - 17 inch lbs.)
Pull scale reading 5.9 - 19.6 N (0.61 - 1.99 kgf, 1.33 - 4.40 ft. lbs.)
Tie rod Inspection
1. Inspect for damage, bending and excessive play.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the steering gear and linkage.
2. Swing the ball joint 5 times.
3. Measure the swing torque using a pull scale. If it exceeds the specification, replace the steering gear and linkage.
Standard swing torque 0.68 - 2.45 Nm (7.0 - 24.9 kgf-cm, 6.1 - 21.6 inch lbs.)
Pull scale reading 6.8 - 24.5 N (0.70 - 2.49 kgf, 1.53 - 5.50 ft. lbs.)