Steering: Testing and Inspection

INSPECTION





1. Check that steering wheel freeplay is correct.
With the vehicle stopped and tires pointed straight ahead, rock the steering wheel gently back and forth with light finger pressure. Freeplay should not exceed the maximum.
Maximum freeplay: 30 mm (1.18 inch).

4WD: If the freeplay exceeds the maximum, adjust it in the following procedure.
2. 4WD: Adjust steering gear.
a. Point the front wheels straight ahead.





b. Loosen the adjusting screw lock nut.
c. Turn the sector shaft adjusting screw clockwise to decrease steering wheel freeplay and counterclockwise to increase it.

HINT: Turn the adjusting screw in small increments and check the freeplay between each adjustment.

d. Turn the steering wheel half way around in both directions. Check that the freeplay is correct and steering is smooth and without rough spots.
e. Tighten the adjusting screw lock nut.





3. Check steering effort.
a. Center the steering wheel.
b. Remove the steering wheel pad.
c. Start the engine and run it at idle.
d. Measure the steering effort in both directions.
Reference: 8.3 Nm (73 inch lbs.)

HINT: Be sure to consider the type, pressure and contact surface before making your diagnosis.

e. Torque the steering wheel set nut.
Torque: 35 Nm (26 ft. lbs.)
f. Install the steering wheel pad.