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Inspection and Verification: Notes

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  1. Verify the customer concern.
  2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage.
    VISUAL INSPECTION CHART

    Mechanical
    • Fluid level
    • Tire pressure
    • Tires
    • Drive belt
    • Drive belt tensioner
    • Steering column alignment
    • Tie-rod ends
    • Suspension components
    • Steering column shaft U-joints
    • Intermediate shaft bolts
    • Power steering pressure lines, fittings or O-rings
    • Power steering return hoses and clamps
    • Steering gear
    • Power steering pump
  3. Inspect the power steering fluid for the following conditions:
  4. NOTE: It may be necessary to add power steering fluid to achieve the correct level.

    Check the fluid level and clean the power steering components.

    With the ignition OFF:

    • Check the power steering fluid level and add fluid as necessary.
    • Wipe off any visible signs of fluid or residue build up.
    • NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

      Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop several times.

  5. Visually inspect the power steering hydraulic line/hose connections for leaks.
    • If a leak is detected at a threaded fitting, tighten to specification. If the leak is still evident, visually inspect the O-rings or Teflon® seals. Install new O-rings or Teflon® seals as necessary. Refer to POWER STEERING .
    • If a leak is detected at a constant tension spring clamp, verify that the hose is not damaged and fully installed on the hose fitting. Make sure that the constant tension spring clamp is positioned 2 mm (0.078 in) from the end of the hose. If the leak remains, install a new constant tension spring clamp.
  6. Visually inspect the power steering components for leaks.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering pressure line or return hose, install a new hose. Refer to POWER STEERING .
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering pump, install a new power steering pump. Refer to POWER STEERING .
    • If a leak is detected at the steering gear, inspect the steering gear and determine the source of the leak. If the leak is related to seals, O-rings and/or the sector shaft cover, reseal the steering gear. Refer to POWER STEERING . If there is damage to the steering gear housing or mating components, a new steering gear must be installed. Refer to POWER STEERING .
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering reservoir, install a new reservoir. Refer to POWER STEERING .
  7. For information on power steering leak detection, refer to COMPONENT TESTS .
  8. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding.
  9. If the cause is not visually evident, verify the symptom and GO to SYMPTOM CHART - STEERING SYSTEM  or GO to SYMPTOM CHART - NVH .
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