Power Steering Gear: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

INSPECT STEERING RACK
1. Using a dial indicator, check the rack for runout and for teeth wear and damage.
  Maximum runout: 0.3 mm (0.012 in.)
  
  If runout exceeds the maximum, replace the power steering rack.
2. Check the back surface for wear and damage.
  
  Fig 1: Checking Steering Rack Runout Using Dial Indicator
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT BEARING
1. Check the needle roller bearing of the rack housing for pit marks or damage.
  If the bearing is faulty, replace the rack housing.
2. Coat the inside of the bearing with molybdenum disulfide lithium base grease.
  
  Fig 2: Checking Needle Roller Bearing Of Rack Housing
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT BEARING
1. Check the bearing rotation condition and check for abnormal noise.
  If the bearing is worn or damaged, replace the control valve assembly.
2. Coat the bearing with molybdenum disulfide lithium base grease.
  
  Fig 3: Checking Bearing Rotation Condition
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002