Rack Sliding Force

NOTE: Perform STEERING WHEEL TURNING TORQUE test before checking rack sliding force. Check rack sliding force with steering gear installed in vehicle, and with tie rods and steering column joint disconnected.

Position wheels in straight-ahead position. Ensure power steering fluid level is correct and there is no air in system. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheels. Remove cotter pins and nuts from tie rod ends. Disconnect tie rod ends from steering knuckles. Disconnect lower steering column joint from pinion shaft. Start engine, and run at idle until fluid temperature in reservoir has reached 140-176°F (60-80°C).
Attach a spring scale at lock nut of tie rod end. Set steering gear to neutral position of rack stroke. Slowly pull tie rod approximately 7/16" (11.5 mm) from neutral position at a rate of 1/8" (3.5 mm) per second. Observe rack sliding force on spring scale. See RACK SLIDING FORCE SPECIFICATIONS table.
On Altima, Quest, Sentra and 200SX, if rack sliding force is not within specification, check hydraulic system pressure. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST . Replace components as necessary. If rack sliding force is within specification, check steering column bearings for damage, unevenness or improper lubrication. Check steering column jacket tube for deformation. See appropriate STEERING COLUMNS article in STEERING. If steering column is okay, replace gear assembly.
On Maxima, Pathfinder/QX4 and 240SX, if rack sliding force is not within specification, readjust pinion rotating torque and recheck sliding force. See PINION ROTATING TORQUE under ADJUSTMENTS . If sliding force still is not within specification, replace gear assembly.

RACK SLIDING FORCE SPECIFICATIONS

Application

Lbs. (kg)

Altima