Avenger V6-2.5L VIN N (1998)
Steering Wheel: Testing and Inspection
FREE PLAY CHECK
1. With engine running (hydraulic operation), set front wheels straight ahead.
2. Measure the play on steering wheel circumference before wheels start to move when slightly moving steering wheel in both directions. The limit is
30 mm (1.2 inch).
3. When play exceeds 30 mm (1.2 inch), check for play on steering shaft connection and steering linkage. Correct or replace.
4. If the free play still exceeds 30 mm (1.2 inch), set steering wheel straight ahead with engine stopped. Load 5 N (1 lb.) towards steering wheel
circumference and check play. Standard value (steering wheel play with engine stopped): 15 mm (0.59 inch) or less. If the play exceeds the
standard value, remove steering gear box and check total pinion torque.
STATIONARY STEERING EFFORT CHECK
1. With the vehicle stopped on a flat, paved surface, turn the steering wheel to the straight ahead position.
2. Start the engine and set it to 1,000 +/-100 RPM.
CAUTION: After checking the engine rpm., there must be a return to the standard idling rpm.
3. Attach a spring scale to the outer circumference of the steering wheel and measure the steering force required to turn the steering wheel from the
straight ahead position to the left and right (within a range of 1.5 turns). Also check to be sure that there is no significant fluctuation of the required
steering force.
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Steering effort: 34 N (7.6 lbs.) or less
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Fluctuation allowance: 5.9 N (1.3 lbs.) or less
4. If the measured force exceeds the standard value, refer to the troubleshooting and make the checks and adjustments described there.
CHECKING RETURN TO CENTER
To make this test, conduct a road test and check as follows.
1. Make both gradual and sudden turns and check the steering "feeling" to be sure that there is not difference in the steering force required and
the wheel return between left and right turns.
2. At a speed of 20 - 30 km/h (12 - 19 mph), turn the steering wheel 90°, and release the steering wheel after 1 or 2 seconds. If the steering wheel
then returns 70° or more, the return can be judged to the satisfactory.
NOTE: There will be a momentary feeling or "heaviness" when the wheel is turned quickly, but this is not abnormal. (This is because the oil
pump discharge amount is especially apt to be insufficient during idling.)
