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.
Tie-rod end rotation torque
0.6-2.0 N-m (6-20 kgf-cm, 5-17 in-lbf)
Pull scale reading: 5.9-19.6 N (0.61-1.99 kgf, 1.33-4.40 lbf)
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.
Tie-rod end swing torque
0.68-2.45 N-m (7.0-24.9 kgf-cm, 6.1-21.6 in-lbf)
Pull scale reading:
6.8-24.5 N (0.70-2.49 kgf, 1.53-5.50 lbf)