Turning Effort Check

NOTE: Be sure the steering column and related components are not worn or damaged before proceeding with this test. If the steering column components are worn or damaged, replace them.

Perform the following steps to check the power steering effort:
1. Park the vehicle on a level, hard, dry surface.
2. Set the parking brake.
3. Check the tires for proper air pressure. Inflate if necessary.
4. Start the engine.
5. Place a thermometer in the power steering oil reservoir.
6. Turn the steering wheel fully left and fully right several times to raise the fluid temperature to 60°-80° C (140°-176° F).

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against a stop for more than 15 seconds at a time.

7. Turn the steering wheel 360 degrees from the neutral position.





8. Use Spring Scale T74P-3504-Y to check the steering wheel turning effort as shown.
9. The steering wheel turning effort should be 39 N (9 lbs) or less in either direction.
10. If the effort is greater than the specification, check for improper fluid level, fluid leakage, air in the system, or power steering pump pressure.