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)]