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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Contour SE, 2.5 L, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 549 (Steering System) >> Diagnosis And Testing >> Steering System >> Component Tests >> Steering Linkage

Steering Linkage

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    NOTE: Excessive vertical motion of the studs relative to the sockets may indicate excessive wear.
  1. With the vehicle on the ground and the parking brake applied, start the vehicle and carry out the following:
    • Have an assistant rotate the steering wheel back and forth 360 degrees and watch for relative motion of the loose steering gear mounting.
  2. An additional check is with the KOEO and the front wheels raised off the ground, grasp the wheel at the front and rear and watch for excessive play or binding in the joints while trying to steer the wheels.
  3. Install new components if necessary. Tighten any worn, damaged, or loose components.