Checking Steering Wheel Turning Force

Checking Steering Wheel Turning Force (For power steering)
1. Park vehicle on a level, dry surface and set parking brake.
2. Start engine.
3. Bring power steering fluid up to adequate operating temperature. [Make sure temperature of fluid is approximately 60 to 80°C (140 to 176°F).]
Tires need to be inflated to normal pressure.





4. Check steering wheel turning force when steering wheel has been turned 360° from the neutral position.
Steering wheel turning force: 39 N (4 kg, 9 lb.) or less





5. If steering wheel turning force is out of specification, check rack sliding force.
a. Disconnect steering column lower joint and knuckle arms from the gear.
b. Start and run engine at idle to make sure steering fluid has reached normal operating temperature.
c. While pulling tie-rod slowly in the ±11.5 mm (±0.453 inch) range from the neutral position, make sure rack sliding force is within specification.
Rack sliding force: 16 inch tire
235 - 294 N (24 - 30 kg, 53 - 66 lb.)
17 inch tire
255 - 294 N (26 - 30 kg, 57 - 66 lb.)
d. Check sliding force outside above range.
Rack sliding force: Not more than 294 N (30 kg, 66 lb.)
If rack sliding force is not within specification, overhaul steering gear assembly.