Diagnostic Procedure # 4 Steering Gear Valve Off Center

Rotary Valve Centering Check: To confirm that you are looking at a steering gear valve concern, lift the front wheels off the ground.

^ The truck should be raised so that there is no interference with the steering linkage.

^ The front wheels should also spin freely.


With the wheels in a straight ahead position, start the engine and observe any steering wheel or linkage movement when the engine is started. If any movement is observed, continue with the rotary valve centering check.

1. Spin the front tires to make sure the front hubs are unlocked. If the hubs are unlocked, the axle shaft will not rotate with the wheels (4x4 models only).

2. Install a Rotunda Power Steering Analyzer (014-00207) or equivalent, 0-13,789 kPa (0-2000 psi) pressure-gauge in the pressure line between the power steering pump outlet port 1 and the integral steering gear inlet port. Make sure the valve on the gauge is fully open.

3. Check the fluid level in the reservoir. Add Premium Power Steering Fluid - E6AZ-19582-AA (ESW-M2C33-F) or equivalent, if necessary.

4. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop to bring the steering lubricant to normal operating temperature. Turn off the engine and re-check the fluid level. Add Premium Power Steering Fluid - E6AZ-19582-AA (ESW-M2C33-F) or equivalent, if necessary.

5. With the engine running at approximately 1000 rpm and the steering wheel centered, attach an lb.in. torque wrench to the steering wheel nut. Apply sufficient torque in each direction to get a gauge reading of 1723 kPa (250 psi).

6. The torque wrench readings should be the same in both directions at 1723 kPa (250 psi). If the difference between the readings exceeds 6 lb.in. (0.68 N-m), remove the steering gear and replace the shaft and control assembly.

7. Remove the pressure gauge installed in Step 2.

8. Recheck, and adjust the fluid level as required.