Steering Linkage/Frame

With the vehicle weight on the front wheels, observe the steering linkage joints while someone else turns the vehicle steering wheel from side-to-side.

^ (RBS) RUBBER BALL SOCKET LINKAGE

Observe it the ball stud makes contact with RBS linkage.














Observe if the ball stud makes contact with the window opening in the socket bowl, refer to Figure 1. Then remove the linkage and determine it the rubber is torn. If contact is made with the window opening or the rubber is torn, replace with a greaseable, steel socket. Refer to Figures 2, 3 or Figure 4 for applicable replacement parts.

(GREASEABLE) STEEL LINKAGE





For steel (greaseable) joints, measure and observe lateral (side-to-side) lash in the joint. If the lash exceeds 1.5 mm (0.060"), the joint should be replaced. Refer to Figure 5. With the linkage removed, check the vertical end play. If the end play is greater than 2.3 mm (0.090"), replace the joint, Figure 5. Also, determine if the steel joint spins freely. If the joint spins freely by hand, the joint should be replaced. Refer to Figures 2, 3 or Figure 4 for applicable replacement parts.





Inspect the mounting surface of the gear and the mounting area of the frame, shown in Figure 6, for signs of motion, for loose rivets, and for cracks. Removal of the gear from the frame may be required. All damages must be repaired. Refer to the Service/Workshop Manual, Section 02-01, for service procedures.

INSPECT THE FRAME IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

^ Frame rail near the steering gear top and bottom flanges

^ Frame rail at the steering bolt heads

^ Frame rail at or near the leaf spring mounting brackets

^ Front crossmember where the track bar mounting bracket mounts