Steering Linkage

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Excessive vertical motion of the studs relative to the sockets may indicate excessive wear.

With the vehicle on the ground and the parking brake applied, start the vehicle and carry out the following:
- Have an assistant rotate the steering wheel back and forth 360 degrees and watch for relative motion of the studs in the steering linkage ball sockets.
- Watch for loose steering gear mounting.
An additional check is with the KOEO and the front wheels raised off the ground, grasp the wheel at the front and rear and watch for excessive play or binding in the joints while trying to steer the wheels.

NOTE: Incorrect separation of the tapered stud from its seat will cause premature failure of the ball socket.

Joints can be checked for excessive wear by measuring the torque it takes t turn the stud.

Separate the tapered stud from its seat and thread the attaching nut back onto the stud.

NOTE: Some joint turning torques will be as little as 0.2 N.m (2.0 lb-in) within the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles) and will remain there for the life of the joint.

Turn the stud with an inch-pound torque wrench and note the torque required to turn the stud.

TORQUE REQUIRED TO TURN STUD IN SOCKET

	Torque Required to Turn Stud in Socket
	N.m	Lb-In
New joints	2.0-5.0	18.0-47.0
Used joints	0.2-3.0	2.0-26.0
Joints with excessive play	Less than 0.2	Less than 2.0

Install new components if necessary. Tighten any worn, damaged, or loose components.