Steering System: Adjustment

STEERING OFF CENTER ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE
HINT:

This is the adjustment procedure for when the steering is off center.
1. Check if the steering wheel is off center.
  1. Apply masking tape to the top center of the steering wheel and steering column upper cover.
  2. Drive the vehicle in a straight line for 100 m (328 ft.) at a constant speed of 56 km/h (35 mph), and hold the steering wheel to maintain the course.
    
    Fig 1: Applying Masking Tape To Top Center Of Steering Wheel And Steering Column Upper Cover
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  3. Draw a line on the masking tape as shown in the illustration.
  4. Turn the steering wheel to the center position.
    HINT:
    
    Look at the upper surface of the steering wheel, steering spoke and SRS airbag line to find the center position.
    
    Fig 2: Drawing Line On Masking Tape
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  5. Draw a new line on the masking tape on the steering wheel as shown in the illustration.
  6. Measure the distance between the 2 lines on the masking tape on the steering wheel.
  7. Convert the measured distance to steering angle.
    HINT:
    - Measured distance of 1 mm (0.0394 in.) = Steering angle of approximately 1°.
    - Make a note of the steering angle.
      
      Fig 3: Drawing New Line On Masking Tape On Steering Wheel
      Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
2. Adjust the steering angle.
  1. Put matchmarks on the RH and LH tie rod ends and rack ends where it can be easily seen.
  2. Using a paper gauge, measure the distance from the RH and LH tie rod ends to the rack end screws.
    HINT:
    - Measure both the RH and LH sides.
    - Make a note of the measured values.
      
      Fig 4: Identifying Matchmarks On RH And LH Tie Rod Ends And Rack Ends Where
      Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  3. Remove the RH and LH boot clips from the rack boots.
  4. Loosen the RH and LH lock nuts.
  5. Turn the RH and LH rack ends by the same amount (but in different directions) according to the steering angle.
    HINT:
    
    One 360° turn of the rack end (1.5 mm (0.0591 in.) horizontal movement) equals 11° of steering angle.
    
    Fig 5: Locating RH And LH Boot Clips
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  6. Tighten the RH and LH lock nuts to the specified torque.
    Torque: 82 N*m (836 kgf*cm, 60 ft.*lbf)
    
    NOTE: Make sure that the difference in length between the RH and LH tie rod ends and rack end screws is within 1.5 mm (0.0591 in.).
  7. Install the RH and LH boot clips.