Component Tests and General Diagnostics

AH46.20-P-9409-01A Evaluating steering rack when repairing All models accident vehicles

1. Accidents with superficial damage
In the event of accidents with body damage (e.g. deformed fender, longitudinal member, side paneling, rear end etc) the steering gear can be used again on condition that parts of the front axle, the steering gear or steering linkage are not damaged.

On vehicles with recirculating-ball steering (model 129, 140, 170, 202, 208, 240) it is also to be ensured that the steering input shaft (connection of lower steering shaft to the steering gear) and the flexible coupling (Hardy disk) do not exhibit any angular movements (torsion).

2. Accidents with permanent deformation of the front axle or steering linkage
For safety reasons, the steering gear must be replaced if components of the front axle, steering gear or steering linkage are permanently deformed.

A shock transmitted to the steering gear through the front axle or steering linkage may have caused damage which not externally visible. A pressure test or crack test required for this is not possible in the workshops, therefore the steering gear is to be replaced in cases of doubt.

3. Accidents with a driver airbag which has been triggered
In the event of accidents with a driver airbag which has been triggered the steering wheel and steering column tube must always be replaced.

Due to the driver airbag being triggered damage can occur to the steering wheel and the steering column tube which is not visible externally.

If the damage referred to here is a claim, we recommend notifying the appropriate insurance company or the authorized automotive expert about the necessity of this procedure. Should contrary to the opinion of the workshop personnel responsible the steering gear remain in the vehicle, we recommend having the decision of the appraiser or insurance company officer confirmed by his signature.

Should in an exceptional case a steering gear is investigated (e.g. on demand by the insurance company if the steering gear has been mentioned as the cause of the accident), the appraiser or insurance company officer must issue a separate order for this.