Procedure

1. Check the power steering fluid level. Replenish if necessary.

2. Turn the steering wheel fully to the left. Remove the ignition key. Then turn the steering wheel to the right until it locks.

3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist.

NOTE:
It is not necessary to remove the steering gear assembly for this inspection.

a. For 4-cylinder models, go to Step 4.

b. For V6 models, go to Step 5.





4. 4-Cylinder Models Only:





Access the pinion nut cap and pinion lock nut as shown.





5. (All models) Clean oil and dirt from the pinion nut cap. Apply a mark to the cap and housing to identify the cap's position before removal.





6. Remove the pinion nut cap. On V6 models, use a 24 mm socket. On 4-cylinder models, use a 24 mm box end wrench.

7. Wipe off excess grease from the pinion lock nut and the end of the shaft. DO NOT USE SOLVENT TO REMOVE GREASE.





8. Visually inspect the pinion shaft threads.

a If the threaded shaft is below the face of the pinion lock nut, replace the steering gear assembly as described in Group 37A of the appropriate service manual. Refer to the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin.

b. If the threaded shaft is flush with or above the face of the pinion lock nut, continue with Step 9.





9. Apply a mark to the pinion lock nut and steering shaft to identify the nut's location on the shaft. Then verify the tightening torque of the nut as follows, using a torque wrench, 6" extension, and a 17 mm socket. For 4-cylinder models, a 3/8" drive swivel socket is necessary.

IMPORTANT:
DO NOT back off the nut before applying torque.

a. Apply 19 Nm (14 ft/lbs) tightening torque to the nut.

b. Inspect the mark on the nut. If the mark has moved less than 90 degrees (1/4 turn), continue with Step 10.

c. If the mark has moved more than 90 degrees (1/4 turn), replace the steering gear assembly as described in Group 37A of the appropriate service manual. Refer to the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin.

10. Clean the old sealant from the pinion nut cap threads.

11. Use a clean cloth to clean the threads of the steering gear housing. DO NOT USE SOLVENT

12. Apply new 3M 08663 Super Silicone Sealant (or equivalent) to the pinion nut cap threads.

13. Reinstall the cap by hand at least 2 full turns. Torque to 48.8 - 68.5 Nm (36 - 50.5 ft/lbs).

On 4-cylinder models, use a 3/8" drive 24 mm crow's foot, and a 6" extension.

On V6 models, use a 24 mm socket with a 6" extension.

14. Check the marks on the cap. The mark must be aligned with the mark on the housing, without exceeding 78 Nm (58 ft/lbs). If the mark is not aligned, remove the cap and repeat Step 13.





15. Using a punch, stake the cap on both sides.

16. 4-Cylinder Models Only:

a. Reinstall the dynamic damper. Torque to 26 Nm (19 ft/lbs).

b. Reinstall the stay. Torque to 86 Nm (63 ft/lbs).

17. Lower the vehicle. Start the engine and check the right and left turn steering effort. Confirm smooth steering operation and confirm that there are no abnormal noises when turning the steering wheel.