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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Taurus LX, 3.0 2, AX4N >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1683 (Steering System - Electronic Power Assist Steering (EPAS)) >> Interactive Diagnostics >> Pinpoint Tests >> Pinpoint Test R: Steering Column Mounted EPAS - Excessive Steering Wheel Play

Pinpoint Test R: Steering Column Mounted EPAS - Excessive Steering Wheel Play

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose vehicles with steering column mounted EPAS systems only. Do not use this pinpoint test to diagnose vehicles with steering gear mounted EPAS systems.
  1. R1: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT FASTENERS 

    Check the steering column assembly for loose fasteners.

    Check the steering gear for loose fasteners, worn or damaged bushings.

    Are the fasteners and bushings ok? 

    Yes No
    Go to  R2. For loose fasteners:
    TIGHTEN the fasteners as necessary.
    REFER to specifications in POWER STEERING SYSTEM and STEERING COLUMN as necessary. For worn steering gear bushing(s): Install a new steering gear.
  2. R2: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT U-JOINTS 
    NOTE: The steering column must be locked in the straight ahead position using the service bolt (HB1), before the column is disconnected from the steering gear to prevent damage to the EPAS sensor internal clock-spring.

    Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.

    Are the steering column shaft U-joints okay? 

    Yes No
    Go to  R3. INSTALL a new steering column shaft.

    REFER to STEERING COLUMN .
  3. R3: CHECK THE INNER AND OUTER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT 

    With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to JACKING & LIFTING .

    Using hand force only, check the inner and outer tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs/sockets.

    Are the inner and outer tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement? 

    Yes No
    Go to  R4. INSTALL a new inner or outer tie rod as necessary. REFER to TIE ROD -- INNER .
  4. R4: CHECK THE SUSPENSION BALL JOINTS AND BUSHINGS FOR DAMAGE, SECURITY, EXCESSIVE FREE PLAY AND IMPEDED MOVEMENT 

    Check the suspension ball joints and bushings for damage, security, excessive free play and impeded movement.

    Has a concern been identified? 

Yes NO
REPAIR as necessary. Install a new steering gear. REFER to POWER STEERING SYSTEM , Removal and Installation .
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