Power Steering Gear

ADJUSTMENTS

Meshload

1. As required, raise and support the vehicle using jackstands.
2. Disconnect the pitman arm from the sector shaft using tool T64P-3590-F or equivalent.
3. Disconnect and cap the fluid return line at the reservoir return line pipe.
4. Place the end of the return line in a clean container and turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several times to discharge the fluid from the gear. Discard the used fluid.
5. Turn the steering gear 45°from the right stop.
6. Remove the steering wheel hub cover. Attach an inch lb. torque wrench to the steering wheel nut and determine the torque required to rotate the shaft slowly about ¹⁄₈ turn from the 45°position toward center.
7. Turn the steering wheel back to center and determine the torque required to rotate the shaft back and forth across the center position.
8. Specification for vehicles under 5000 miles is 12–24 inch lbs. If the vehicle has over 5000 miles, reset the meshload measured while rocking the input shaft over center is less than 10 inch lbs. greater than torque 45°from the right stop.
9. If reset is required loosen the adjuster locknut and turn the sector shaft adjuster screw until the reading is the specified value greater than the torque at 45°from the stop. Hold the sector shaft screw in place and tighten the locknut.