Check the steering wheel play on a vehicle installed on a smooth, non-slip surface. The play should not exceed 5°. You can also determine the play in linear units (mm) using the formula:
L = (5°/360°)πD, Where
L – steering wheel play, mm;
π = 3,14;
D – outer diameter of the steering wheel, mm.
For a steering wheel with an outer diameter of 360 mm, the play should not exceed 15–17 mm.
You will need: a ruler, chalk (or wire) for applying marks.
1. Set the front wheels to the straight-ahead position.
2. Position the ruler so that its end rests against the instrument panel and the plane of the ruler touches the outer surface of the steering wheel rim. Without changing the position of the ruler, turn the steering wheel to the right until the front wheels begin to turn. In this position, mark the steering wheel rim with (secure the wire).
3. Without changing the position of the ruler, turn the steering wheel to the left until the front wheels begin to turn.
4. In this position, apply a second mark to the steering wheel rim (secure the wire).
5. Measure the distance between the marks on the rim. It should not be greater than the calculated value. If the distance (steering wheel free play) moreover, it is necessary to establish the cause and eliminate it.