Attention! Each time steering parts are removed, they must be checked and, if necessary, replaced with new ones of the same part number, quality and design. For proper assembly, it is necessary to strictly follow the specifications for the tightening torques of the threaded connections of the parts. Do not attempt to heat or straighten any suspension or steering parts. Instead, replace any bent or damaged parts with new ones.
All vehicles covered in this manual have rack and pinion steering. Steering consists of a steering wheel, steering column, steering mechanism, steering rods and tie rod ends. The power steering has a pump driven by a drive belt.
When the steering wheel is turned, the force is transmitted through the column to the rack and pinion steering shaft. The gear shaft teeth engage with the rack teeth, so when the shaft is turned, the rack moves in the housing to the left or right. The spool directs hydraulic fluid under pressure from the power steering pump to the right side of the power cylinder; this reduces the effort required to turn the steering wheel. If there is no pressure from the power steering pump, the steering will continue to work, although more effort will be required.
The steering column is a folding type that absorbs impact energy in a collision. It is designed to minimize injury to the driver in the event of an accident. On the column are installed: ignition switch, turn signal and headlight switch, wiper switch. The steering wheel is locked when the ignition key is removed in position "ABOUT".
In addition to vehicles with a standard steering column, options are available (optionally) with a column with an adjustable tilt angle and options with opening of a column with a key. The adjustable-angle column can be installed in five different positions, and when installed with a key, the ignition key is locked in the column until the lever is pressed.
Since most steering column disassembly is done to repair switches or other electrical parts, and not to repair steering problems, procedures for disassembling and assembling the top of the steering column are included in chapter 12.