L-Series Wagon 4WD F4-1781cc 1.8L SOHC Turbo (MPFI) (1985)
Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints: All Technical Service Bulletins
Steering Wheel - Highway Speed Vibration
NUMBER 05-19-86
APPLICABILITY:
ALL 1985-86 VEHICLES DATE 03-11-86
SUBJECT:
Steering Wheel Vibration or "Flutter"
This bulletin has been prepared to assist in the diagnosis and repair of steering wheel vibration or "flutter". This "flutter" is defined as a rapid left to
right pulsation of the steering wheel at speeds of 55 to 65 mph on a smooth road surface. It may be accompanied by a "body shake" or vibration in the
seat and/or floor at these same speeds. Our investigations have shown that vibrations in the body and steering can be caused by several conditions.
However, the single major cause of steering wheel flutter has been wheel imbalance. Steering wheel flutter and accompanying body vibrations can be
eliminated through careful vehicle servicing.
PROCEDURE:
1)
When this condition is encountered, and verified through a road test, it must be confirmed that all contributing factors have been inspected and
repaired as necessary. Items such as wheel bearings, shock absorbers, universal joints, DOJ and CVJ must be in proper operating condition.
Rotating parts must be free of rustproofing and/or mud.
2)
Next, determine if the vehicle is fitted with the modified steering rack sleeve spring. If not, replace the spring as necessary.
There is an obvious difference in the wire diameter used in the old coil spring compared to the modified ones. The new springs are thicker than the
old ones. Actual wire diameters are:
ORIGINAL
MODIFIED
Manual Steering - CGR
0.25 cm (0.10 in.)
0.33 cm (0.132 in.)
Power Steering
0.19 cm (0.076 in.)
0.25 cm (0.10 in.)
STEERING RACK SLEEVE SPRING TENSION INCREASE
Starting VIN's:
Sedan
235 157
Station Wagon
449 009
March, 1985 Production
XT Coupe
304 233
PART NUMBERS OF MODIFIED PARTS
S/W and 4-Door Sedan
XT Coupe
Power Steering
31263GA760
31260GA291
Manual Steering-CGR
31248GA080
31248GA080
FIGURE 1