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 belt tension.
Q: Is the power steering belt tension within the standard value?
YES: Go to Step 2.
NO: Adjust the tension. Then go to Step 10.

STEP 2. Check the belt for damage.
Q: Is the belt damaged?
YES: Replace the 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, start the engine, and then turn the steering wheel several times to raise the temperature of the fluid to approximately 50 - 60°C (122 - 140°F).
2. With the engine running, turn the wheel all the way to the left and right several times.





3. 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 air from the system.
Q: Is fluid foamy?
YES: Go to Step 10.
NO: Go to Step 4.

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 there fault?
YES: Repair or 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). Front Wheel Alignment Check and Adjustment.
Q: Is there fault?
YES: Repair 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 1 0.
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 steering wheel operation.
Verify that steering wheel operation is not difficult.
Q: Is the steering wheel operation difficult?
YES: Repeat from Step 1
NO: Diagnosis is complete.