Pinpoint Test C: Steering System Drift/Pull/Wander

C1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT
- NOTE: Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft. Refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM article.
- Check the steering column and shaft for grounding.
- Disconnect the steering column shaft at the steering column.
- Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering column shaft U-joints OK?
- Yes: GO to C2 .
- No: INSTALL new steering column shaft as necessary. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
C2 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING
- Check the steering gear mounts for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering gear mounts OK?
- Yes: GO to C3 .
- No: INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
C3 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR
- Carry out the STEERING GEAR VALVE Component Test.
- Is the steering gear valve OK?
- Yes: REFER to SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article to diagnose suspension system drift/pull/wander.
- No: INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.