SECTION 14: STEERING
PA1621 Maintenance Manual All Series | January 2017
27
13.10.2 Straight Body Type Ball Joint End Play
and Looseness
What creates movement in sockets?
In each straight body type ball joints, the
compressive force of the spring creates resistive
torque by applying a constant load on the
bearing and stud.
As wear occurs on the components, the spring
creates less resistive torque. With less torque,
you no longer have the precise joint needed for
optimum steering, but you do still have a safe
linkage. When all compression is lost, it’s
time to replace the linkage. This wear can be
caused by impact, lack of lubrication and normal
wear.
1. With vehicle engine on, lightly rock the
steering wheel while checking for looseness
in any threaded joint. Observe any
looseness in the two mating tapers or any
movement of the ball pin nut. Any looseness
requires further inspection. If either of the
mating tapered parts shows distortion or
wear, both parts must be replaced.
2. With the engine off and
wheels straight ahead and
no force is being exerted
on the linkage by the
steering gear, push and
pull the ball joint in and
out by hand
(approximately 100 lbs.
force) in the direction of
the ball pin. If no
movement is detected, the
ball joint is safe. Any
movement detected by
hand will require the
replacement of the ball
joint.
CAUTION
Do not use a wrench or other object to apply
leverage when inspecting ball joint. Applying
leverage can give distorted results and damage
components.
14. DRIVING TIPS
In order to maximize power steering pump service
life, do not attempt to turn the steering wheel
when the vehicle is stationary, and especially
when service brakes are applied (wheel locking
will oppose the effect of steering geometry which
tends to make the front wheels rotate in opposite
directions).
Persisting in turning, or maintaining the steering
wheel with an extra effort, could make the
hydraulic system work at the relief pressure, and
consequently, cause the hydraulic fluid to become
overheated.
CAUTION
Never maintain the hydraulic system at the
relief pressure for longer than 5/10 seconds to
avoid damaging the power steering pump.
NOTE
Unequal or low tire pressure, oversize tires, and
vehicle overloading are some of the causes that
may increase steering effort.
15. FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT
15.1 INDEPENDENT FRONT SUSPENSION
ALIGNMENT
Proper front end alignment must be maintained
to insure ease of steering and provide
satisfactory tire life. When making front end
alignment inspections, the vehicle must be level
and empty with the full weight of the vehicle on
the wheels.
Front end alignment inspections fall into two
groups: regular service inspections performed at
periodic intervals, and inspections to determine
the extent of damage after a collision or severe
service.
Regular service inspections concern toe-in,
camber and caster.
Any variation from the specified alignment will
indicate either a need for adjustment or a more
thorough inspection to determine if parts
replacement is required.
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General
