Gear Box Total Pinion Torque Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
When holding the steering gear box assembly in a vice, secure its mounting positions. If it is secured in any other place, the gear housing may become deformed or damaged.
Using special tool MB990228 or MB991006, rotate the pinion gear at the rate of one rotation in approximately 4 to 6 seconds to check the total pinion torque.
Standard value: 0.8 - 1.9 N.m (6.9 - 16.5 in-lb)
[Change in torque: 0.7 N.m (6.1 in-lb) or less]
NOTE:
When measuring, remove the bellows from the rack housing.
Measure the pinion torque through the whole stroke of the rack. If the measured value is not within the standard range, first adjust the rack support cover, and then check the total pinion torque again.
If the total pinion torque cannot be adjusted to within the standard range by adjusting the rack support cover, check the rack support cover, rack support spring, rack support and replace any parts if necessary.
Measure the pinion torque through the whole stroke of the rack. If the measured value is not within the standard range, first adjust the rack support cover, and then check the total pinion torque again.
If the total pinion torque cannot be adjusted to within the standard range by adjusting the rack support cover, check the rack support cover, rack support spring, rack support and replace any parts if necessary.