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00 00... Steering components: Check for play, damage and, if nec., tightness

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Checking play: 

NOTE: Observe NOTES on checking the steering backlash!
  1. Check the tie rod backlash only in loaded condition or in the design position.
  2. Checking with front axle raised:
    • To evaluate the play of the steering gear, it is necessary to pressurize the steering gear via its servo system!
    • The combustion engine must be running during hydraulically or electrically assisted steering for this purpose

Steering wheel: 

Move steering wheel back and forth and check for play.

Track rod joint: 

There must be no play between the track rod joint (1) and track-rod arm (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Track-Rod Arm And Track Rod Joint
G04725315Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Check for damage: 

Check gaiter, axle and gaiter for damage (e.g. cracks, holes) and leaks.

Check gaiter for missing tensioning straps.

Check for tightness (only for hydraulically supported steering): 

Check all visible connections, hoses, lines and steering box for traces of fluid.

The following image shows the principal arrangement of the hydraulic steering components and lines.

Fig 2: Identifying Power Steering System Components
G09913935Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.