Steering/Body/Controls The following steering components should be inspected periodically to ensure safe and proper operation. A. Steering wheel secure. B. Steering has equal and complete full-left and fullright turning capability. C. Steering sector mounting bolts tight. D. Ball joints not worn, cracked, or damaged.
PR899
E. Tie rods not bent or cracked.
Steering System
F. Knuckles not worn, cracked, or damaged. G. Cotter pins not damaged or missing. H. Steering wheel tilt locks securely. The frame and welds should be checked periodically for damage, bends, cracks, deterioration, broken components, and missing components.
Steering Wheel REMOVING
1. Remove the steering wheel cover; then match mark the steering shaft and steering wheel. NOTE: Any time steering components are disassembled, all connecting components should be marked for proper alignment during assembling.
2. Remove the lock clip from the steering shaft; then remove the nut securing the steering wheel and remove the steering wheel. INSPECTING
REMOVING STEERING SHAFT/EPS ASSEMBLY NOTE: Thoroughly troubleshoot the EPS system (if equipped) prior to replacing the EPS assembly (see Electrical System - Electronic Power Steering (EPS)) as there are several possible external causes for system failure.
1. Remove the hood, front access panel, and front fenders; then disconnect the regulator/rectifier and remove the screws securing the coolant bottle to the front storage box. 2. Remove the front storage box; then remove the steering wheel. 3. Disconnect the tilt steering mechanism from the steering shaft; then remove the shift lever knob. 4. Disconnect the wiring harness connectors from the back of the dash; then remove the dash. 5. Remove the two cap screws securing the steering shaft housing to the frame.
1. Inspect the steering wheel for cracks, missing padding, or broken spokes. 2. Inspect the splines for wear. 3. Check that the steering wheel is not bent. INSTALLING
1. Install the steering wheel aligning the two match marks; then apply a drop of red Loctite #271 to the threads of the nut and secure the steering wheel. Tighten to 25 ft-lb. NOTE: If a new steering wheel is being installed, mark the wheel as close as possible to the old wheel mark; then check for proper positioning with the front wheels straight forward.
2. Install the lock clip on the steering shaft. NOTE: If the hole in the steering shaft does not
align with the slots in the castle nut, tighten the nut slightly until the next slot aligns with the hole.
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PR897A
NOTE: Steps 6 and 7 are for non-EPS models. For EPS models, complete steps 8-11.
6. Make matching alignment marks on the pinion shaft and steering shaft joint.
