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Steering Column: Inspection

  1. Check joint cover for cracks or damage. Check shaft length. On Challenger and Sapporo, measure shaft from upper end to joint pin center. On all others, measure shaft from end-to-end.
    STEERING SHAFT LENGTH

    Application In. (mm)
    Challenger & Sapporo 28.52-28.62 (724.5-726.9)
    RWD Pickups
    Manual Steering 29.45-29.53 (748.0-750.0)
    Power Steering 29.33-29.41 (745.0-747.0)
    4WD Pickups 30.86-30.95 (784.0-786.0)
  2. On RWD and 4WD Pickups, check steering shaft-to-column bearing clearance. Clearance should be .0004-.0020" (.010-.050 mm). Check steering coupling for damage. On 4WD Pickups, check upper and lower universal joints for play or sticking. Check upper and lower boots and dust cover for damage.
  3. On all models, check steering shaft distortion using a dial indicator. Shaft should not be bent more than .020" (.50 mm). Check tilt bracket for deformation or cracks. Check collapsible tube for damage.
  4. Hold lower end of steering shaft and move upper shaft to check for free play between upper and lower shaft splines. Check upper and lower column bearings for wear or damage. On Challenger and Sapporo, check column bushing for wear.
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