Test Procedure
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.
- H1 - CHECK FOR TIRE PULL
- H2 - ROTATE THE WHEEL AND TIRE ASSEMBLIES FRONT TO REAR
- Rotate the front wheel and tire assemblies front to rear. Refer to FRONT article.
- Carry out a road test on a smooth, flat road.
- Does the vehicle drift/pull?
- Yes : GO to H3.
- No : Concern has been corrected.
- H3 - CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT
- Check the steering column and intermediate shaft for grounding.
- Disconnect the steering column intermediate shaft at the steering column.
- Inspect the steering column intermediate shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering column intermediate shaft universal joints OK?
- Yes : GO to H4.
- No : INSTALL a new steering column intermediate shaft. REFER to STEERING COLUMN in this section.
- H4 - CHECK THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING
- Check the steering gear mounts for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering gear mounts OK?
- Yes : GO to H5.
- No : INSTALL new steering gear mounts. REFER to STEERING GEAR in this section.
- H5 - CHECK THE STEERING GEAR
- Carry out the Steering Gear Valve component test. Refer to COMPONENT TESTS in this section.
- Is the steering gear valve OK?
- Yes : GO to H6.
- No : REPAIR or INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to STEERING GEAR in this section.
- H6 - CHECK THE SUSPENSION COMPONENTS
- H7 - CHECK THE WHEEL ALIGNMENT
- Using a suitable alignment system, measure the wheel alignment settings. Refer to FRONT article .
- Are the alignment settings within specifications?
- Yes : CHECK for correct frame alignments. REFER to EXTERIOR TRIM .
- No : ADJUST the alignment angles to specifications. DO NOT exceed specifications. TEST the system for normal operation.
NOTE:
Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft. Refer to AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
.
NOTE:
The vehicle will tend to pull toward the side with the least positive caster and the most positive camber.