Steering Column: Testing and Inspection
Steering Column Inspection
Inspection
1. Remove the steering column. Service and Repair
2. Do these checks:
- Check the steering column ball bearing (A) and the steering joint bearing (B) for play and proper movement. If any bearing is noisy or has excessive play, replace the steering column as an assembly.
- Check the sliding capsules (C) for distortion and breakage. If there is distortion or breakage, replace the steering column as an assembly.
- Check the tilt mechanism for movement and damage.
3. Install the steering column. Service and Repair
Check of Tilting Force
1. Set the steering wheel in the straight ahead driving position, and loosen the lock lever fully.
2. Attach the spring scale to the highest point of the steering wheel, and tilt the steering column to the lowest position.
3. Pull the spring scale straight up, and read the force required to move the steering column.
4. Attach the spring scale to the lowest point of the steering wheel.
5. Pull the spring scale straight down, and read the force required to move the steering column.
6. If the measurement is more than the specification, adjust the lock lever preload if necessary.
Lock Lever Preload Inspection/Adjustment
1. Move the lock lever (A) from the loosened position to the locked position three to five times; then measure the lock lever preload 10 mm (0.39 in.) from the end of the lock lever.
2. If the measurement is out of the specification, adjust the preload using the following procedures.
- Loosen the lock lever, and set the steering column to the neutral position.
- Remove the 6 mm lock bolt (B), and remove the stop (C). Be careful not to loosen the lock lever when installing the stop or tightening the 6 mm lock bolt.
- Adjust the preload by turning the tilt lock bolt (D) left or right.
- Pull up the lock lever to the uppermost position, and install the stop. Check the preload again. If the measurement is still out of specification, repeat the above procedures to adjust.
