Thrust Bearing Preload
- Remove steering gear from vehicle. Remove adjuster plug lock nut. Turn adjuster plug clockwise with a spanner wrench until plug is seated in housing. This will require 20-30 ft. lbs. (27-41 N.m) of torque.
- Place an index mark on housing opposite one spanner wrench hole in adjuster plug. Measure 1/2" (13 mm) counterclockwise from mark and again mark housing. Rotate plug counterclockwise until hole in adjuster lines up with second mark. Tighten lock nut. Ensure adjuster remains in position. Preload should be 4-10 INCH lbs. (.4-1.1 N.m).
NOTE:
If reading does not fall within this range, adjuster plug may have turned while lock nut was being tightened. Steering gear may be incorrectly assembled or worm shaft thrust bearings and races may be defective. Repair as required and readjust preload.