Ford 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual page 725

Component Tests
Steering Linkage
1. NOTE: Excessive vertical motion of the studs relative to the sockets may indicate excessive
wear.
With the parking brake applied, perform the following:
Have an assistant rotate the steering wheel back and forth 360 degrees and watch for
relative motion of the studs in the tie-rod end ball sockets.
Watch for loose steering gear mounting.
2. Another method is to raise the front wheels (1007) off the ground, grasp the wheel at the front
and rear and watch for excessive play or binding in the joints while trying to steer the wheels.
3. Install new steering components as necessary. For additional information, refer to the
appropriate Group 2 steering section.
Turning Effort Test
NOTE: Make sure that the front wheels are properly aligned and the tire pressure is correct before
checking the effort.
1. Park the vehicle on dry concrete and set the parking brake.
2. Insert a thermometer into the power steering pump reservoir.
3. CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to
five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump will occur.
Idle the engine for two to three minutes. Turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop several times
to warm the fluid to 50-60°C (122-140°F).
4. With the engine running, attach special tool 211-034 (T74P-3504-Y) to the rim of the steering
wheel.
5. Measure the pull required to turn the steering wheel one complete revolution in each direction.
Refer to Steering Wheel Turning Effort under General Specifications in this section.
Pump Flow and Pressure Test
WARNING: Do not touch the flowmeter during the test procedure, or severe burns and
serious injury may occur.
1. CAUTION: Make sure that the connection point will not interfere with any of the
engine accessory drive components or drive belts.
Install special tool 211-F001 (014-00207) at the high pressure port of the power steering pump.
Make sure the power steering analyzer gate valve is fully open.