Steering Linkage
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2003 Ford Excursion, and 2003 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- With the parking brake applied, carry out the following:
- Have an assistant rotate the steering wheel back and forth 360 degrees and watch for relative motion of the studs in the steering linkage ball sockets.
- Watch for loose steering gear mounting.
- Another method is to raise the front wheels (1007) 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.
- Install new or tighten any worn, damaged, or loose tie rods, tie rod ends, linkages or components.
NOTE:
Excessive vertical motion of the studs relative to the sockets may indicate excessive wear.