Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Steering Linkage Inspection

Tools Required

* J 45101 - Hub and Wheel Runout Gauge

* J 42640 - Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin

Left Side Steering Linkage

1. Elevate the left front of the vehicle and install suitable vehicle support maintaining contact between the right front wheel and the shop floor.





2. Position the wheels in a straight-ahead position and install the J 42640 - steering column anti-rotation pin.





3. Install a dial indicator between the outer tie rod and the steering knuckle as shown and push inward to remove the lash slowly with one hand.

4. Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward on the tire, and note the amount of movement in the joint.

The movement should not exceed 1.0 mm (0.039 in).





5. Install the dial indicator between the outer tie rod end and the jam nut and attach the other end to the relay rod as shown and push inward on the tire to remove the lash slowly with one hand.

6. Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward, and note the amount of movement in the joint.

The movement should not exceed 1.0 mm (0.039 in).





7. Install the dial indicator between the pitman arm and the relay rod as shown and push inward on the tire to remove the lash slowly with one hand.





8. Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward, and note the amount of movement in the joint.

The movement should not exceed 1.0 mm (0.039 in).

Right Side Steering Linkage





1. Elevate the right front of vehicle and install a suitable vehicle support maintaining contact between the left front wheel and the shop floor.





2. Install a dial indicator between the outer tie rod and the steering knuckle as shown and push inward to remove the lash slowly with one hand.





3. Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward, and note the amount of movement in the joint.

The movement should not exceed 1.0 mm (0.039 in).





4. Install the dial indicator between the outer tie rod end and the relay rod as shown and push inward to remove the lash slowly with one hand.





5. Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward, and note the amount of movement in the joint.

The movement should not exceed 1.0 mm (0.039 in).