Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Tie-Rod Articulation Torque

1. NOTE: This check can be done with the steering gear on or off the vehicle.

Disconnect the tie-rod end from the front wheel spindle.

2. Move the tie-rod back and forth three times.
3. Hook the Spring Scale over the tie-rod end or the threaded portion of the tie-rod and measure the force required to move the front wheel spindle tie-rod.
4. If the force required to move the front wheel spindle tie-rod does not meet the specifications, install a new tie-rod.

Steering Gear Valve
1. With the vehicle in motion, place the transmission in NEUTRAL and turn the engine OFF.
^ If the vehicle does not pull with the engine OFF, repair or install a new steering gear.

2. If the vehicle pulls with the engine OFF, cross-switch the front wheels.
3. If the vehicle pulls to the opposite side, cross-switch the front and rear wheels on the same side.
4. If the vehicle pull direction does not change, check the front suspension components, wheel alignment and frame alignment.