Pinpoint Test F: Steering Is Very Difficult/Very Easy

F1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN BEARINGS AND THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT
NOTE: Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft. Refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM .
- Check the steering column and shaft for grounding.
- Disconnect the steering column shaft at the steering column.
- Verify the intermediate shaft U-joints do not bind, but move freely, and that the steering column bearing rotates freely.
- Are the steering column bearing and shaft U-joints OK?
1. Yes : GO to F2.
2. No : If the steering column or the intermediate shaft are grounding, REPAIR as necessary.
  If the steering column bearings or the shaft are binding, INSTALL a new shaft or steering column. REFER to STEERING COLUMN .
F2 CHECK THE FRONT BALL JOINTS
- Check that the front ball joints move freely and are not binding or sticking. Refer to FRONT SUSPENSION - 4X2 or FRONT SUSPENSION - 4X4 .
- Are the front ball joints OK?
1. Yes : GO to F3.
2. No : INSTALL new lower arms as necessary. REFER to FRONT SUSPENSION - 4X2 or FRONT SUSPENSION - 4X4 .
F3 MONITOR THE ENGINE RPM CHANGES
NOTE: Make sure the vehicle is on a flat, dry surface.
- Key in START position
- Turn the steering wheel once to the left stop position and then to the right stop position.
- Note the engine during the turns.
- Does the engine change when turning the steering wheel?
1. Yes : If no power steering assist is present and the engine changes, INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to POWER STEERING .
  If left-to-right variation is present, INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to POWER STEERING .
  
  If excessive effort is required in one or both directions, INSTALL a new power steering pump. REFER to POWER STEERING .
2. No : INSTALL a new power steering pump. REFER to POWER STEERING .