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

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 in good condition? 

   Yes	No
   Go to  R2.	For loose fasteners, TIGHTEN the fasteners as necessary. REFER to Specifications in the Steering Column article . For worn steering gear bushings, INSTALL a new Steering Gear assembly. REFER to the Power Steering article .

2. R2: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT U-JOINTS 
   NOTE: The steering column must be locked in the straight ahead position before the steering column is disconnected from the steering gear to prevent damage to the steering wheel clockspring.
   • Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
   • Are the steering column shaft U-joints in good condition? 

   Yes	No
   Go to  R3.	INSTALL a new EPAS steering column. REFER to Steering Column . ORDER a replacement EPAS column and INCLUDE the RVC on the order form. If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.

3. R3: CHECK THE OUTER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT 
   • With the transmission in NEUTRAL, position the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Jacking and Lifting .
   • Using hand force only, check the outer tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs and sockets.
   • Are the outer tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement? 

   Yes	No
   Go to  R4.	INSTALL a new Outer tie rod(s). REFER to Power Steering article .

4. R4: CHECK THE INNER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT 
   • Remove the steering gear bellows boots. Refer to Inner Tie Rod Removal and Installation in the Power Steering article .
   • Using hand force only, check the inner tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs and sockets.
   • Are the inner tie rods free from any vertical and lateral movement? 

   Yes	No
   Go to  R5.	INSTALL a new Inner tie rod(s). REFER to Power Steering .

5. R5: 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 assembly. REFER to Power Steering .