Steering Linkage Inspection

Special Tools

CH-42640 Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin
CH-45101 Dial Indicator Kit

Equivalent regional tools:Special Tools

Fig 1: Locking/Unlocking Steering Column

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

CAUTION:

With wheels of the vehicle facing straight ahead, secure the steering wheel utilizing steering column anti-rotation pin, steering column lock, or a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

The steering column
The intermediate shaft(s)
The steering gear

After disconnecting these components, do not rotate the steering wheel or move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the SIR coil assembly to become un-centered and cause possible damage to the SIR coil. If you think the SIR coil has became un-centered, refer to your specific SIR coil's centering procedure to re-center SIR Coil.

Position the wheels in a straight-ahead position and install the CH-42640 Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin (1).
Elevate the left front of the vehicle and install a suitable support, maintaining contact between the right front tire and wheel assembly and the shop floor. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle

Fig 2: Dial Indicator Between Outer Tie Rod And Steering Knuckle

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the dial indicator between the steering linkage outer tie rod and the steering knuckle, as shown, and push slowly inward with one hand to remove any lash.
Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward on the tire, and note the amount of movement.
The movement should NOT exceed 1 mm (0.039 in).

Fig 3: Dial Indicator Between Outer Tie Rod End & Jam Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the dial indicator between the steering linkage outer tie rod and the steering linkage inner tie rod nut and attach the other end to the steering linkage relay rod, as shown, and push slowly inward on the tire with one hand to remove any lash.
Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward on the tire, and note the amount of movement.
The movement should NOT exceed 1 mm (0.039 in).

Fig 4: View Of Dial Indicator Between Pitman Arm And Relay Rod

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the dial indicator between the pitman arm and the steering linkage relay rod, as shown, and push slowly inward on the tire with one hand to remove any lash.

Fig 5: Measuring Amount Of Movement In Joint

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward on the tire, and note the amount of movement.
The movement should NOT exceed 1 mm (0.039 in).
Remove the support and lower the vehicle.
Jounce the vehicle several times to settle the steering linkage and front suspension.
Elevate the right front of the vehicle and install a suitable support, maintaining contact between the left front tire and wheel assembly and the shop floor. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle

Fig 6: Dial Indicator Between Outer Tie Rod And Steering Knuckle

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the dial indicator between the steering linkage outer tie rod and the steering knuckle, as shown, and push slowly inward on the tire with one hand to remove any lash.

Fig 7: Noting Amount Of Movement In Right Side Joint

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward on the tire, and note the amount of movement.
The movement should NOT exceed 1 mm (0.039 in).

Fig 8: Dial Indicator Between Outer Tie Rod End And Relay Rod

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the dial indicator between the steering linkage outer tie rod end and the steering linkage relay rod, as shown, and push slowly inward on the tire with one hand to remove any lash.

Fig 9: Noting Amount Of Movement In Right Side Tie Rod End

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Place the dial indicator at zero, pull outward on the tire, and note the amount of movement.
The movement should NOT exceed 1 mm (0.039 in).