The steering mechanism of a car is one of its most important components. Due to malfunctions in the steering, the driver can get into serious trouble on the road, so you should be careful about this element of the car.
It is necessary
- - dynamometer;
- - vernier caliper;
- - a universal set of tools.
Instructions
Step 1
Check the steering wheel for possible play. This is the distance that the steering wheel rotates without using the wheel steering mechanism. Measure it with a vernier caliper. Hang it at the top or bottom of the steering wheel. Set the reference point and align with it the beginning of the reading mechanism of the caliper. Turn the steering wheel itself to the opposite point of play. It is necessary to extend the measuring arm and place it on the reference point marked on the handlebars. Backlash exceeding 35 mm is considered unacceptable. It needs to be adjusted.
Step 2
Adjust the steering wheel play. It is carried out by additional reinforcement of the cardan joints of the steering shaft. Find the hinge adjusting screw, then set the allowable backlash by adjusting the force with the screws.
Step 3
Turn the steering wheel a full turn, attaching the dynamometer to it. Power steering should not exceed 5 kg as indicated by the dynamometer. Mechanical steering, in accordance with the make and model of the car, allows fluctuations in the indicator from 6 to 10 kg. Check out the technical documentation for your car.
Step 4
Check and adjust, if necessary, the effort applied to turn the steering wheel. This is done using a dynamometer. In a car equipped with a power steering, start the engine, leaving it running for 5 minutes so that the fluid in the power steering can warm up to operating temperature.
Step 5
Adjust the ball joints on the steering rods if they are too high. To do this, place the car on an overpass, since you will need access to it from the bottom. Check the fastening of the steering rod joints and tighten it if the joints are loose. Also check the steering column damper with a dynamometer: the applied force must not exceed 5 kg.
