Steering Gear: Adjustments
Rack Bearing Preload Adjustment1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
2. Center the steering wheel.
3. Remove the power steering gear.
4. Loosen the locknut and turn the adjuster plug clockwise until a torque of 7 Nm (62 inch lbs.) is obtained, then loosen it by 30 to 40 degrees. Check the pinion torque. Maximum pinion preloaded torque is 1 Nm (9 inch lbs.).
5. Tighten the locknut on the adjuster plug while holding the adjuster plug stationary.
6. Install the power steering gear.
7. Be sure to check the returnability of the steering wheel to center position after adjustment.
^ Tighten the adjuster plug locknut to 75 Nm (56 ft. lbs.).