1. Check: the fluid level in the power steering pump reservoir; pump belt tension; lack of air in the power steering system.
2. Perform a power steering system check, see section "Steering".
Note:
- a) Increased pressure in the system is almost always associated with a defect in the pressure relief valve of the power steering pump.
- b) Low pressure may be due to leaks in the system, a faulty pressure relief valve in the pump, a faulty valve in the steering gear, or general wear of the steering gear or pump.
3. The kingpin caster adjustment is incorrect due to incorrect tire pressure or installation of tires of a non-recommended type.
4. Wear of the ball joints of the steering rods.
5. The steering column or steering shaft is not adjusted correctly.
Symptom 2: Impacts on the steering wheel ("kickback" from the wheels).
1. Check the performance of the steering shock absorber:
Clamp one end of the shock absorber in a vice using soft metal spacers. Extend and retract the shock absorber rod. The resistance to movement must be the same in both directions.
2. If the shock absorber is normal, check the reliability of the steering arm fastenings and the absence of unintended gaps (for example, in silent block bushings).
Note: If at least one bushing needs to be replaced, all control arm bushings must be replaced.
3. If the condition of the levers is satisfactory, check for resistance to movement of the steering knuckles (see section "Front axle and final drive").
Symptom 3: "Light" steering wheel or increased free play of the steering wheel.
1. Check the steering gear adjustment.
2. If the mechanism is adjusted correctly, check the condition of the Panhard rod bushings and the axle suspension reaction arms.
3. Check the condition of the steering shaft cardan joints.
Symptom 4: Steering wheel vibration.
Steering wheel vibration is usually caused by wheel imbalance (shimmy), but there are several other causes of this defect.
1. Check the condition of the steering wheel tires and their balance.
2. Check the steering shock absorber.
3. Check the condition of the steering shaft cardan joints.
4. Check the reliability of the steering arm fastenings and the absence of any unintended gaps.
5. Check the condition of the front axle suspension cushions and the reliability of the suspension arm fastenings.
6. Check the steering adjustment.
7. Check the clearances in the hub bearings and the condition of the bearings.
8. Check the resistance to movement of the steering knuckles.
9. Check the steering linkage geometry.
Symptom 5: Loss of directional stability.
A distinction is made between loss of directional stability when moving forward, when braking, and when towing a trailer.
1. The most probable causes of the malfunction:
- a) violation of the steering gear alignment;
- b) violation of the geometry of the steering trapezoid.
2. Pulling to the side without braking:
- a) swap the steering wheels;
- b) if the direction of the pull has changed, install new tires;
- c) if there are no changes, contact a service station.
3. Pulling to the side when braking:
- a) bleed the brake system;
- b) check the condition of the brake pads and discs;
- c) check the brake pipes and hoses;
- d) if you have any difficulties, contact a service station.
4. Pulling to the side when towing:
- a) Check the condition of the trailer suspension;
- b) check the functionality of the suspension shock absorbers of both axles. Try swapping the shock absorbers;
- c) check the performance of the steering shock absorber;
- d) if you have any difficulties, contact a service station.
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