Checking the condition of the steering (XRAY 1)

We check the condition of the steering system in accordance with the maintenance regulations every 10 thousand km. We carry out the work on an inspection ditch or overpass. There must be no mechanical damage to the steering components. The steering gear housing and pendulum arm bracket mounting nuts must be tightened. To check the free play of the steering wheel (backlash), set the front wheels to a position corresponding to the straight-line movement of the car. We attach a long-handled screwdriver to the dashboard with tape, so that its blade is directed towards the steering wheel. Turn the steering wheel until the wheels start turning (the wheels must remain stationary) first in one direction, then in the other. At the moment when the wheels begin to turn, we mark the boundaries of the free play of the steering wheel on its rim with chalk. By measuring the distance between the marks, we determine the free play of the steering wheel, which should not exceed

5 degrees. (corresponds to a distance between marks of 18-20 mm) provided that the steering mechanism, steering rods, and front wheel hub bearings are in good condition. When turning the steering wheel sharply from side to side at a small angle, we make sure that there is no knocking in the cardan joints of the steering column and the steering mechanism. Otherwise, we tighten loose fasteners or replace faulty parts and components. To assess the condition of the steering rod joints, we hang up the front wheels and securely fix the car on factory-made support stands.



The assistant, taking hold of the wheel, rocks it in a horizontal plane - several times, alternately, sharply pulling the rear part of the wheel towards himself, and the front part away from himself, and vice versa.

At the same time, having put my hand to it...



...to the body of the ball joint of the outer end of the steering rod and the steering arm, we evaluate their mutual movement.

If there is any free play in the ball joint, the tie rod end must be replaced. The tie rod end also needs to be replaced...



...if the hinge boot is torn or cracked.

Using your hand or a mounting blade, press on the hinge housing in the direction of the pin, while the pin should go into the hinge housing by 1.0-1.5 mm. If this does not happen, you need to replace the rod end. We check the condition of the remaining ball joints in the same way. We check the operation of the steering column adjustment mechanism. When the adjustment lever is lowered, the steering column should move smoothly up and down without jerking or jamming, and when the lever is raised, it should be securely fixed in the set position.

To check the power steering on a stationary vehicle, turn the steered wheels to the extreme positions 1-2 times with the engine off and then with the engine running. By comparing the forces applied to the steering wheel in both cases, one can draw a conclusion about the performance of the power steering (a properly functioning power steering system significantly reduces the force applied to the steering wheel when the engine is running). Spontaneous rotation of the power steering wheel from the neutral position when the engine is running is not permitted.