Steering Wheel And Column Inspection - Mazda 6 2002 Workshop Manual

STEERING WHEEL AND COLUMN INSPECTION

Steering Wheel Play Inspection
1. With the wheels in the straight-ahead position, gently turn the steering wheel to the left and right and verify that
the play is within the specification.
• If the play eceeds the specification, either the steering joints are worn or the backlash of the steering gear
is ecessive. Correct as necessary.
Play
0—30 mm {0—1.18 in}
Steering Wheel Looseness Inspection
1. Move the steering wheel as shown in the figure to
inspect for column bearing wear, steering shaft
joint play, steering wheel looseness, and column
looseness.
• Repair or replace as necessary.
Steering Wheel Effort Inspection
1. Inspect the following points:
• Tire size and tire pressure
• Fluid level
• Drive belt deflection
2. With the vehicle on a hard, level surface, put the wheels in the straight-ahead position.
3. Remove the air bag module.
Warning
• • • • See DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION for removal/installation of the air
bag module after inspection.
4. Start the engine and warm the power steering fluid to 50—60 ° ° ° ° C {122—140 ° ° ° ° F}.
5. Measure the steering wheel effort using a torque
wrench.
• If not within the specification, verify the
following:
— No air in steering system
— No fluid leakage at hose or connectors
— Function of oil pump and steering gear
Steering wheel effort
7.8 N·m {80 kgf·cm, 58 in·lbf} ma.
Note
• To determine whether the steering effort is
satisfactory or not, perform the inspection on
another vehicle of the same model and under the same conditions, and compare the results.
• The steering wheel effort varies with conditions as shown below.
— Road conditions, such as dry or wet, and asphalt or concrete.
— Tire conditions, such as brand, wear, and tire pressure.
End Of Sie
N–6
ENGINE SPEED SENSING POWER STEERING
A6E661432010W01
A6E0612W015
A6E0612W016