Driving straight ahead position, check/adjust (Steering Gear)

Checking and Adjusting Operations  

Straight Ahead Position, Check/Adjust  

Notice: 

Picture showing dismantled steering gear.  

  Important!   

After each and every operation on the steering gear or on the steering column assembly (removal and installation or disassembly and assembly), the exact straight ahead position of the steering must be checked.  

The drive straight ahead position is reached when the check dimension "I"   = 325 mm is achieved.     Inspect    Insert the check gauge KM-476 (1) between the tie rod end and the left steering housing - fixing heel.   In this precise straight ahead position:   1.   The clamping flange bolt (arrow) must lie horizontally on the top.   2.   The steering wheel must be in the central position.

  Adjust   

Re 1. Adjust angle of clamp flange bolt: - e.g. pinion offset by one tooth on steering rack (installation fault) - correct steering pinion position immediately. For vehicles with airbag, correct steering pinion position with steering and ignition lock engaged.  

Re 2. Steering wheel deviates from centre by more than 5 ° (clamp flange bolt must be situated on top and horizontally): Remove and install steering wheel - see operation "Steering Wheel, Remove and Install (Vehicles with Airbag)" or "Steering Wheel and/or Slip Contact Ring, Remove and Install (Vehicles without Airbag)"  

  Tighten (Torque)   

Steering pinion and steering coupling - 22 Nm/16 lbf. ft.