Removal and Replacement
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
REMOVAL SERVICE POINTS
]]A[[ TIE ROD END DISCONNECTION
CAUTION:
^ Loosen the nut from the ball joint instead of removing it.
^ Hang special tool MB991113 or MB990635 with ropes to prevent it from falling.
Use special tool MB991113 or MB990635 to disconnect the ball joint.
]]B[[ GEAR BOX ASSEMBLY REMOVAL
CAUTION: Be sure not to damage the bellows and the tie rod end dust cover when removing the gear box assembly.
INSPECTION
GEAR BOX TOTAL PINION TORQUE CHECK
CAUTION: When holding the steering gear box assembly in a vice, secure in mounting positions. If it is secured in any other places, the gear housing may become deformed or damaged.
Using special tool MB990228 or MB991006, rotate the pinion gear at the rate of one rotation in approximately 4 to 6 seconds to check the total pinion torque.
Standard value: 0.8 - 1.9 Nm (6.9 - 16.5 inch lbs.)
[Change in torque: 0.7 Nm (6.1 inch lbs.) or less]
NOTE: When measuring, remove the bellows from the rack housing. Measure the pinion torque through the whole stroke of the rack.
If the measured value is not within the standard range, first adjust the rack support cover, and then check the tote/ pinion torque again.
If the tote/ pinion torque cannot be adjusted to within the standard range by adjusting the rack support cover, check the rack support cover, rack support spring, rack support and replace any parts if necessary.
TIE ROD SWING RESISTANCE CHECK
1. Give 10 hard swings to the tie rod.
2. Measure the tie rod swing resistance with a spring scale.
Standard value: 4.0 - 18.6 N (17.8 - 82.7 lb) [1.0 - 4.9 Nm (8.7 - 43.4 inch lbs.)
3. If the measured value exceeds the standard value, replace tie rod.
4. If the measured value is below the standard value, the tie rod can be re-used if it swings smoothly without excessive play.
TIE ROD END BALL JOINT DUST COVER CHECK
1. Check the dust cover for cracks or damage by pushing it with your finger.
2. If the dust cover is cracked or damaged, replace the tie rod end.
NOTE: Cracks or damage of the dust cover may damage the ball joint. If it is damaged during service work, replace the dust cover.