Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Steering Linkage

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 damps as necessary.

1. With the wheels in the straight ahead position, gently turn the steering wheel to the left and the right to check for free play.

2. Free play should be between 0 and 6 mm (0 and 0.24 inch) at the steering wheel rim. If the free play exceeds this limit, either the ball joints are worn or the backlash of the steering gear is excessive.

3. The backlash of the steering gear 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 wheel or steering column. For additional information, refer to Steering Column.