Steering Gear: Service Precautions

AH46.20-P-9409-01SM Evaluating Steering Rack When Repairing Accident Vehicles

In the event of accidents or driving situations of a similar nature (ramming or driving over obstacles) impact-type stresses may cause damage to the steering gear, which is not visible on the outside. Therefore a complete visual inspection with crack tests of the disassembled steering gear must follow. Since most workshops do not have the facilities to perform such a test, the steering should always must be exchanged in case of doubt.

In accidents with some slight damage to the body (outer skin panel damage or damaged plastic paneling) the steering can continue to be used, provided that:
^ Parts of the front axle such as steering knuckle, tie rods, drag links, steering gear pitman arm or universal joints may not be damaged.
^ No excessive stress has occurred at the front axle or it has to be assumed that none has occurred.
^ The steering can be turned by hand from lock to lock without seizing up.

The steering must be replaced for safety reasons when:
^ The vehicle has suffered frame damage.
^ Visible damage such as permanent deformation or breakages in the steering gear or the mechanical connecting parts from the steering to the steering wheel or from the steering to the wheel.
^ Parts of the front axle have a permanent set or are broken.
^ Excessive stress on the front axle is confirmed by the results of a chassis alignment.
^ Tire, rim, wheel nut or hub cap has a permanent set or is broken.
^ In the event of fire damage, the paint on the steering is charred or bubbled or the boots are deformed or burnt.

If, despite defects found, changing the steering is rejected by the customer or insurance company for cost reasons, the customer or insurance company must bear the full responsibility for the further use of the steering gear and all the resultant technical and legal consequences. DC recommends having this confirmed in writing by the customer or insurance company.