Crown Victoria V8-281 4.6L SFI (1998)
Steering Wheel: Testing and Inspection
Free Play
NOTE: Before checking steering wheel free play, check for radial play or wobble between the steering wheel and steering column. Any free play
detected reflects wear in the steering column bearing and can add to apparent free play.
1. With the wheels in the straight ahead position and engine off, gently turn the steering wheel to the left and right until increased resistance is
detected to check free play.
2. Free play should not exceed 6 mm (1/4-inch) measured at the outside diameter of the steering wheel.
3. If the free play exceeds this limit either the steering joints are worn or the power rack and pinion steering gear has excessive play.
4. Grasp the steering wheel firmly and move it up and down and to the left and right to check for column bearing wear, steering shaft joint play,
steering wheel looseness or column looseness.
