00 00... Steering components: Check for play, damage and, if nec., tightness

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Checking play

NOTE: OBSERVE NOTES ON CHECKING THE STEERING BACKLASH !

Check the tie rod backlash only in loaded condition or in the design position.
Checking with front axle raised:
- To evaluate the play of the steering gear, it is necessary to pressurize the steering gear via its servo system!
- The combustion engine must be running during hydraulically or electrically assisted steering for this purpose

Steering wheel

Move steering wheel back and forth and check for play.

Track rod joint

There must be no play between the track rod joint (1) and track-rod arm (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Tie Rod Arm And Tie Rod Joint

Courtesy of

Check for damage

Check gaiter, axle and gaiter for damage (e.g. cracks, holes) and leaks.

Check gaiter for missing tensioning straps.

Check for tightness (only for hydraulically supported steering)

Check all visible connections, hoses, lines and steering box for traces of fluid.

The following image shows the principal arrangement of the hydraulic steering components and lines.

Fig 2: Identifying Hydraulic Steering Components And Lines

Courtesy of