Steering Gear: Testing and Inspection
STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE INSPECTIONSteering Rack Inspection
1. Inspect for cracking, damage, and tooth wear.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the steering rack.
2. Measure the steering rack warp. If it exceeds the maximum specification, replace the steering rack.
Steering rack runout
Large diameter portion (near point A): 0.15 mm (0.006 in) max.
Small diameter portion (near point B): 0.20 mm (0.008 in( max.
Tie-rod End Inspection
1. Inspect the tie-rod end for damage and the boot for cracks.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the tie-rod end.
2. Inspect for excessive play.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the tie-rod end.
3. Rotate the ball joint 10 times.
4. Install two nuts to the ball joint and measure the tie-rod end rotational torque using a torque wrench.
^ If not within the specification, replace the tie-rod end.
Tie-rod end rotational torque 0.5-3.0 N-m (6-30 kgf-cm, 5-26 in-lbf)
Tie rod Inspection
1. Inspect for bending and damage.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the tie rod.
2. Inspect for excessive play.
^ If there is any malfunction, replace the tie rod.
3. Swing the ball joint 10 times.
4. Measure the ball joint swing torque using a pull scale.
^ If it exceeds the specification, replace the tie rod.
Tie rod swing torque 0.4-4.0 N-m (5-40 kgf-cm, 4-35 in-lbf)
[Pull scale reading 0.6-29.3 N (0.06-2.98 kgf, 0.14-6.58 lbf)]