Steering Column: Inspection
- Make sure universal joint has no play in any direction. Replace if necessary. Flex universal joint and check for binding. Replace if yawing torque exceeds 4 INCH Lbs. (.58 N.m).
- Check plastic washer for damage, and serration for wear. Check steering shaft length. Standard shaft length should be 33.74-33.82" (857.0-859.0 mm). Shaft length for tilt column should be 25.35-25.43" (644.0-646.0 mm).
- Check shaft runout. Runout for elliptical part should be less than 1.28" (32.5 mm). Runout for upper end of shaft should be less than .047" (1.2 mm). Runout for shaft collar (standard wheel) should be less than .024" (.6 mm). Replace steering shaft if not within specifications. Check bearings for damage and replace if needed.