Steering Column: Testing and Inspection

NOTE: Vehicles involved in accidents resulting in body damage or where steering column has been impacted may also have a damaged or misaligned steering column.
In such a case, following steps should be performed.

INSPECTION





1. Check clearance between capsules and steering column bracket as shown. Clearance should be 0.0 mm (0.0 inch) on both sides.
Clearance "a": 0.0 mm (0.0 inch)





2. Take measurement "b" as shown. If it is shorter than specified length, replace column assembly with new one.
Specified length "b": 750.6 ± 0.8 mm (29.55 ± 0.03 inch)





3. Check steering shaft joints and shaft for any damages such as crack, breakage, malfunction or excessive play. If anything is found faulty, replace as shaft assembly.
4. Check steering shaft for smooth rotation. If found defective, replace as column assembly.





5. Check steering lower shaft for specified length. If it is shorter than specified length, replace it with new one.
Length "c":
303 mm (11.9 inch) manual steering.
262 mm (10.3 inch) power steering.





6. Check steering lower shaft runout. If it exceeds its specified limit, replace it with new one.

NOTE: To obtain accurate measurement, be sure to clean surface where runout is measured beforehand and turn steering lower shaft gradually while taking measurement.

Runout limit: 1.5 mm (0.059 inch)

WARNING: Never disassemble steering lower shaft assembly. If it is found faulty, replace it with new assembly.