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Inspection Procedure 2: Difficult Steering Wheel Operation (Insufficient Power Assist)

INSPECTION PROCEDURE 2: Difficult Steering Wheel Operation (insufficient Power Assist)

DIAGNOSIS

STEP 1. Check the power steering oil pump drive belt tension.
Q: Is the power steering oil pump drive belt tension within the standard value?
YES: Go to Step 2.
NO: Adjust the tension. Then go to Step 10

STEP 2. Check the drive belt for damage.
Q: Is the drive belt damaged?
YES: Replace the drive belt. Then go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 3.

STEP 3. Check the fluid level.
1) Park the vehicle on a flat, level surface, and then start the engine.
2) Turn the steering wheel several times to raise the temperature of the fluid to approximately 50 - 60°C (122 - 140°F).
3) With the engine running, turn the wheel all the way to the left and right several times.





4) Check the fluid in the oil reservoir for foaming or milkiness. Check the difference of the fluid level when the engine is stopped, and while it is running. If the change of the fluid level is 5 mm (0.2 inch) or more, bleed the air from the system.
Q: Is the fluid foamy?
YES: Go to Step 4.
NO: Go to Step 10.

STEP 4. Check for entry of air.
Q: Has air entered?
YES: Bleed the air. Then go to Step 10
NO: Go to Step 5.

STEP 5. Check each hose for crushing or twisting.
Q: Is any hose crushed or twisted?
YES: Replace the hose. Then go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 6.

STEP 6. Check for oil leaks.
Q: Are there oil leaks?
YES: Repair it. Then go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 7.

STEP 7. Check the wheel alignment (camber and caster).
Q: Is the alignment incorrect?
YES: Adjust it. Then go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 8.

STEP 8. Check the gear box rack piston seal for damage.
Q: Is there damage?
YES: Replace it. Then go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 9.

STEP 9. Check for excessive tie rod end ball joint breakaway torque.
Q: Is there fault?
YES: Replace the part. Then go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 10.

STEP 10. Check the steering wheel operation.
Verify that the steering wheel operation is not difficult.
Q: Is the steering wheel operation difficult?
YES: Repeat from Step 1.
NO: The procedure is complete.