Linkage Check

CAUTION: Boots must be handled carefully to avoid damage. Use new steering gear boot clamps when installing boots.

Inspect the boots for cuts, deterioration, twisting or distortion. Check the steering gear boots to make sure they are tight. Install new boots or clamps as necessary.
1. With the wheels in the straight ahead position, gently turn the steering wheel to the left and night to check free play.
2. Free play should be between 0 and 6 mm (0 and 0.25 inch) at the steering wheel rim. If the free play exceeds this limit, either the steering joints are worn or the backlash of the rack and pinion steering gear is excessive.
3. Backlash cannot be adjusted, install a new steering gear.
4. Grasp the steering wheel firmly and move it up and down and to the left and right without turning the wheel to check for column bearing wear, steering column shaft joint play, steering wheel or steering column looseness.