Checking Steering Wheel Turning Force

CHECKING STEERING WHEEL TURNING FORCE





1. Park vehicle on a level and dry surface, set parking brake.
2. Start engine.
3. Bring power steering fluid up to adequate operating temperature. [Make sure temperature of fluid is approximately 50 to 80°C (122 to 176°F).] Tires need to be inflated normal pressure.
4. Check steering wheel turning force when steering wheel has been turned 360° from the neutral position.
Steering wheel turning force: 36 N (3.7 kgf, 8.2 lbs.) or less
5. If steering wheel turning force is out of specification, check rack sliding force.
a. Disconnect lower shaft and steering knuckle from steering gear assembly.
b. Start and run engine at idle to make sure steering fluid has reached normal operating temperature.





c. While pulling outer socket slowly in ± 11.5 mm (± 0.453 inch) range from neutral position, make sure rack sliding force is within specification.
Rack sliding force:
2WD: 171 - 234 N (17.5 - 23.8 kgf, 38.6 - 52.4 lbs.)
AWD: 167 - 230 N (17.0 - 23.4 kgf, 37.5 - 51.5 lbs.)
d. If rack sliding force is not within specification, overhaul steering gear assembly.