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 full-right turning capability. C. Steering sector mounting bolts tight. D. Ball joints not worn, cracked, or damaged.
MOD220
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.
REMOVING EPS ASSEMBLY
The frame and welds should be checked periodically for damage, bends, cracks, deterioration, broken components, and missing components.
NOTE: Thoroughly troubleshoot the electronic power steering (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.
Steering Wheel
NOTE: The EPS assembly is only serviceable as an assembly.
REMOVING
1. Remove the steering wheel cover; then match mark the steering shaft and steering wheel.
1. Disconnect the battery; then remove the hood, upper hood, dash upper and dash lower; then disconnect the EPS electrical connection.
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
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
MOD269
2. Align the steering rack with the marks with the wheels straight ahead.
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 (34 N-m). 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; then install the steering wheel cover. 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.
MOD173
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