Cougar/XR7 V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
6.
Make two (2) marks on the top outside edge of the yoke spring nut 16 mm apart (Figure 2). The marks are needed to properly adjust the yoke
spring preload. These marks can be made at any location on top of the nut, but they must be 16 mm apart.
7.
Reinstall the yoke spring nut and tighten to 5.1-5.6 N.m (45-50 lb-in). This bottoms the yoke against the rack and preloads the yoke correctly.
NOTE
THE TIGHTENING TORQUE OF THE YOKE SPRING NUT IS CRITICAL.
8.
Make a mark on the steering gear housing that aligns with mark # 1 on the yoke spring nut.
9.
Back off the yoke spring nut until mark # 2 aligns with the mark on the steering gear housing. This equals 48-56 degrees (52 degrees is the target)
and sets the clearance between the yoke and rack.
10.
Hold the yoke spring nut in place and reinstall the locknut. Tighten the locknut to 60-81 N.m (44-60 lb-ft).
