Power Steering Gear - Revised
90vw09Subject: New power steering gear (ZF)
Model(s): Jetta, 1990 m.y.
Group: 48
Number: 90-01
Date: May 31, 1990
A new power steering gear made by ZF (Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen) will be installed in production Jetta vehicles. Some Jettas will continue to be produced with the previously used TRW power steering gear.
ZF power steering gear
^ rack housing of cast aluminum, waffle design, painted silver
^ manufacturer's label on valve housing
TRW power steering gear
^ rack housing of steel, painted black
^ manufacturer's label on rack housing
CAUTION
ALL components of the ZF power steering gear are different from those on the TRW power steering gear. Ensure that parts are not interchanged between the two types of steering gear. This includes tie rods, boots and clamps.
1 - Steering gear adjusting, page 4
2 - Pressure equalizer line
3 - Tie rod end
4 - 50 N-m (37 ft.lb.)
5 - Clamp
^ always replace
^ tightening, see page 4
6 - Boot
^ remove tie rod end to remove boot
^ check for wear (slits or cracks)
^ check for proper sealing
7 - Tie rod (right)
^ removing/installing, see repair manual, Group 48
^ adjust toe on right side tie rod only
^ different diameter from tie rod used on TRW steering gear
8 - Clamp tightening, see page 4
9 - Tie rod (left)
^ removing/installing, see repair manual, Group 48
^ adjust tie rod to length when installing, see repair manual, Group 48
^ different diameter from tie rod used on TRW steering gear
10 - 30 N-m (22 ft.lb.)
11 - Mounting clamp
12 - Mounting bushing inner diameter: 50 mm (44 mm = TRW)
13 - Label
CAUTION
Always replace self-locking nuts and bolts.
Do not attempt to weld or straighten steering system components.
CAUTION
Part numbers are for reference only. Always check with your Parts Department for latest information.
ZF power steering gear, adjusting
Two mechanics are necessary to do the following adjustment.
^ engine OFF
^ vehicle on the ground
^ wheels straight ahead
^ move steering wheel back and forth approximately 300 from center position while listening for rattling and popping noises from steering gear
^ second mechanic must turn adjusting screw (arrow) clockwise until rattling and popping noises are not heard inside vehicle
^ conduct test drive and readjust if necessary
^ steering must return to straight ahead position on its own after turning
Clamps, tightening
^ ensure that clamps are tightened to provide proper sealing