LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone
Home >> Mini >> 2009 >> Cooper Base, 2D Convertible, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 2995 (Steering And Wheel Alignment - Repair) >> Mechanical Steering Gear >> 32 11... Notes on checking steering backlash on vehicles with rack-and-pinion steering >> Notes

32 11... Notes on checking steering backlash on vehicles with rack-and-pinion steering: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: The evaluation "steering backlash" is made usually when the front axle is raised, where the track rod is angled.
The force introduced via the track rod is divided into a horizontal force and a vertical force relieving the thrust member (1) against the spring (2).
The steering box is depressurized on account of no hydraulic assistance due to engine standstill and is thus not preloaded!
The play created in this way is incorrectly referred to as steering backlash.
Fig 1: Identifying Thrust Member, Spring And Rack
G08420851Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

3 = Rack