Steering, Position Straight Ahead (Steering Gear)

Steering, Position Straight Ahead

After all necessary operations on the steering gear or the steering column assembly are completed (removing and reinstalling, disassembling and reassembling), the exact straight ahead position of the steering is to be checked in each case.

The straight ahead position is achieved when reference dimension A = 325 mm/12.795 in.

To make check, place Measuring Gauge KM-476 between end of tie rod and left hand mounting recess for steering gear (looking in direction of travel).

Hold steering wheel in this exact straight ahead position.

The following conditions must be fulfilled:

1.  The steering spindle clamp flange bolt must be lying horizontally

(illustration B 3099 shows steering gear removed).

2.  The steering wheel must be centered on the steering spindle.

(steering wheel spokes centered diagonally and pointing downwards).

To 1. If clamp flange bolt is slanted (Illus. B 3100) - i.e. pinion is displaced one tooth on rack (assembly error) - steering pinion position must be corrected immediately.

(Illus. B 3100) shows steering gear removed).

To 2. If steering wheel is off centre by more than ±5° (clamp flange bolt must lie horizontally on top), pull steering wheel off of steering spindle using KM-210-A and centre of spindle splines.