Steering Linkage Inspection

Special Tools GE-8001 Magnetic Base Dial Indicator Equivalent regional tools: Special Tools Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle

Steering Linkage Inspection — figure 1

2. Install a magnetic base (1) to the front brake shield at the location shown above.
3. Install GE-8001 Magnetic Base Dial Indicator (2) to the steering linkage outer tie rod (3) with the contact point at the location shown above.
4. Ensure GE-8001 Magnetic Base Dial Indicator (2) is set at zero before taking a measurement.
5. Using a flat bladed tool, induce an upward and downward motion on the steering linkage outer tie rod (3).
6. If movement exceeds 1.0 mm (0.039 in) replace the steering linkage outer tie rod. Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement Steering Linkage Inner Tie Rod
7. Raise and support the vehicle. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle

Steering Linkage Inspection — figure 2

2. Install a magnetic base (3) to the lower control arm at the location shown above.
3. Install GE-8001 Magnetic Base Dial Indicator (1) to the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (2) with the contact point at the location shown above.

Steering Linkage Inspection — figure 3

Note

Only move the tire enough to feel any lash between the inner tie rod and the inner tie rod housing without moving the steering gear rack.

4. Grasping the tire at the 3 o’clock (2) and 9 o’clock (1) positions, gently push in on one side of the tire in order to remove any lash.
5. Ensure GE-8001 Magnetic Base Dial Indicator is set at zero before taking a measurement.
6. On the same side of the tire previously pushed in, gently pull out and measure the lash.
7. If the movement exceeds 0.5 mm (0.02 in), replace the steering linkage inner tie rod. Steering Linkage Inner Tie Rod Replacement