Steering Wheel: Inspection

CHECK STEERING WHEEL FREE PLAY
1. Stop the vehicle and face the tires straight ahead.
2. Rock the steering wheel gently up and down with a finger lightly, check the steering wheel freeplay.
  Maximum free play: 30 mm (1.18 in.)
  
  Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Free Play
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
CHECK STEERING EFFORT
1. Center the steering wheel.
2. Remove the steering wheel pad (See WHEEL PAD & STEERING WHEEL ).
3. Start the engine and run it at idle.
4. Measure the steering effort in both directions.
  Reference: 7 N.m (70 kgf.cm, 61 in.lbf)
  
  HINT:
  
  Be sure to consider the tire type, pressure and contact surface before making your diagnosis.
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Steering Effort In Both Direction
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
5. Disconnect the PPS solenoid connector.
  
  Fig 3: Locating PPS Solenoid Connector (3UZ-FE And 2JZ-GE)
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
6. Measure the steering effort in both directions and check that the steering effort exceeds the reference value in (d), and that the power assist is operating. If steering effort is not heavier than (d), check the solenoid.
  HINT:
  
  Take the tire type, pressure and contact surface into consideration before making your diagnosis.
7. Connect the connector.
8. Torque the steering wheel set nut.
  Torque: 50 N.m (510 kgf.cm, 37 ft.lbf)
9. Install the steering wheel pad (See WHEEL PAD & STEERING WHEEL ).