Attention! Each time the steering components are removed, they must be checked and, if necessary, replaced with new ones of the same number, quality and design. For correct assembly, it is necessary to strictly follow the technical specifications for tightening torques of threaded connections of parts. Do not attempt to heat or straighten any suspension or steering components. Instead, replace any bent or damaged parts with new ones.
All vehicles covered in this manual are equipped with rack and pinion steering. The steering system consists of a steering wheel, steering column, steering gear, tie rods and tie rod ends. The power steering has a pump driven by a drive belt.
When the steering wheel is turned, the force is transmitted through the column to the rack and pinion steering shaft. The teeth of the gear shaft mesh with the teeth of the rack, so when the shaft turns, the rack moves to the left or right in the housing. The spool valve directs hydraulic fluid under pressure from the power steering pump to the desired side of the power cylinder; this reduces the effort required to turn the steering wheel. If there is no pressure from the power steering pump, the steering will continue to operate, although more effort will be required.
The steering column is a folding type that absorbs impact energy during a collision. It is designed to minimize injury to the driver in the event of an accident. The following are installed on the column: ignition switch, turn signal and headlight switch, windshield wiper switch. The steering wheel is locked when the ignition key is removed in position "O".
In addition to vehicles with a standard steering column, there are options (optional) with an adjustable tilt column and options with a key opening of the column. The adjustable tilt column can be installed in five different positions, and when installed with a key-operated column, the ignition key is locked in the column until the lever is pressed.
Since most steering column disassembly is done to repair switches or other electrical components rather than to troubleshoot steering problems, procedures for disassembling and assembling the upper portion of the steering column are included in chapter 12.