Steering System (Power Steering): Inspection: Gearbox

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Set the steering wheel in the straight position, then rotate it 90° in both the left and right directions. While steering wheel is being rotated, check the looseness of the gearbox.
Tightening torque:

60 N.m (6.1 kgf-m, 44.3 ft-lb)
- Hydraulic power steering
  
  Fig 1: Locating Hydraulic Power Steering Bolts
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Electric power steering
  
  Fig 2: Locating Electric Power Steering Bolts
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Check the boot for damage, cracks or deterioration.
With the vehicle stopped on a level surface, quickly turn the steering wheel to the left and right.
While steering wheel is being rotated, check the gear backlash. If any noise is noticed, adjust the gear backlash. < Ref. to GEARBOX BACKLASH ADJUSTMENT , ADJUSTMENT, Electric Power Steering Gearbox. >

Adjust the hydraulic power steering as follows.
1. Loosen the adjusting screw, and apply liquid gasket to at least 1/3 of the entire perimeter of adjusting screw thread.
  Liquid gasket:
  
  THREE BOND 1102
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Liquid Gasket
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
2. Tighten the adjusting screw, then loosen it.
  CAUTION: Adjust the steering rack to the straight forward position.
  
  Tightening torque:
  
  25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18 ft-lb)
3. Tighten the adjusting screw, then loosen it.
4. Tighten the adjusting screw.
  Tightening torque:
  
  5.9 N.m (0.6 kgf-m, 4.2 ft-lb)
5. Then, return the adjusting screw by 5° and fix it.
6. Install the lock nut. While holding the adjusting screw with wrench, tighten the lock nut using ST.
ST 926230000 SPANNER

Tightening torque (lock nut):

25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18 ft-lb)

Hold the adjusting screw with wrench to prevent it from turning while tightening the lock nut.