Inspection Procedure 1

INSPECTION PROCEDURE 1: Excessive Play of Steering Wheel

DIAGNOSIS

STEP 1. Check for looseness at the steering shaft coupling section and at the steering wheel linkage.

Q. Is there any looseness?

YES Repair or replace the part. Then go to Step 3.
NO Go to Step 2.
STEP 2. Check the steering wheel free play.

(1)With the engine running (hydraulic operation), set the front wheels straight ahead.

(2)Measure the play on the steering wheel circumference before the wheels start to move when slightly moving the steering wheel in both directions.
Limit: 30 mm (1.2 inch) or less


(3)If the free play exceeds the limit value, set the steering wheel straight ahead with the engine stopped. Load approximately 5 N (1.1 pound) towards the steering circumference and check the play.
Standard value (steering wheel play with engine stopped): 16.5 mm (0.65 inch) or less


Q. Does the play exceed the standard value?

YES Remove the steering gear box (Refer to Removal and Replacement) and check the total pinion torque (Refer to Removal and Replacement). Then go to Step 3.
NO Go to Step 3.
STEP 3. Check the steering wheel play.

Verify that the steering wheel play is not excessive.

Q. Is the steering wheel play excessive?

YES Repeat from Step 1.
NO The procedure is complete.