Pinpoint Test C : Steering System Drift/Pull/Wander

C1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT
NOTE: Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft. Refer to the CLOCKSPRING article for the procedure.
- Check the steering column and shaft for grounding.
- Disconnect the steering column shaft at the steering column.
- Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering column shaft U-joints OK?
- Yes : GO to C2.
- No : INSTALL a new steering column shaft as necessary. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
C2 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING
- Check the steering gear mounts for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering gear mounts OK?
- Yes : GO to C3.
- No : INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING SYSTEM article.
C3 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR
- Carry out the Steering Gear Valve Test Component Test in this service information.
- Is the steering gear valve OK?
- Yes : REFER to SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article to diagnose suspension system drift/pull/wander.
- No : REPAIR or INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING SYSTEM article.