1985 Spectrum L4-915 15L Manual Steering Gear Service
Fig. 8 Checking clearance
e. Using a feeler gauge, measure clearance between the valve and gear housing, Fig. 8. The purpose of step e is to reduce the clearance as
close to zero as possible by removing shims. This minimizes endplay for the pinion gear assembly.
f.
Using example shown in Fig. 8 calculate, then remove the necessary shims. Install pinion and valve assembly following the procedure in step
d. Again check clearance. Final clearance measurement obtained should be .002 inch or less.
g. Carefully set rack to dimension A, recorded previously. Install pinion aligning flat parallel, as shown in Fig. 5. Plus or minus 5 degrees from
parallel is acceptable.
h. When final clearance is obtained, use RTV sealer No. 1052366 or equivalent, to seal mating surfaces of valve and steering housing. Torque
to 18 ft. lbs.
i.
Install rack plunger, spring, adjusting plug and locknut. Torque adjusting plug to 3.6 ft. lbs., loosen plug, then again torque to 3.6 ft. lbs. Back
off plug 30 or 35 degrees, then tighten locknut.
j.
Check pinion shaft preload. Preload should be 4.1-2 ft. lbs. If preload is not as specified, loosen locknut and adjust plug torque. When an
acceptable preload is obtained, apply liquid thread lock to locknut and torque nut to 49 ft. lbs.
16.
Install right and left cylinder pipes. Torque fittings to 14 ft. lbs.
17.
Install inner tie rod and new locking washer to rack end. Torque to 65 ft. lbs. Stake locking washer to the flat of inner tie rod. Apply grease to
inner surface of small opening of boot.
18.
Install boot over inner tie rod. Install boot clamp and wire. Use new boot, if necessary.
19.
Install tie rod nut and attach tie rod end.
20.
Adjust rod length L dimension to 7.5 inch.
21.
Torque tie rod locking nut to 40 ft. lbs.
