Removal and Replacement

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

INSPECTION
GEAR BOX TOTAL PINION TORQUE CHECK

CAUTION: When holding the steering gear box assembly in a vice, secure its mounting positions. If it is secured in any other places, the gear housing may become deformed or damaged.





Using special tool 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: 0.6 - 1.9 Nm (5.3 - 14.2 inch lbs.)
[Change in torque: 0.4 Nm (3.5 inch lbs.) or least

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 total pinion torque again.
If the total 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: 6 - 19 N (26.7 - 84.5 lb.) [1.5 - 4.9 Nm (13.2 - 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.