With the vehicle resting on a level floor and the
CENTER LINE OF WHEELS
wheels in a straight-ahead position, push the vehicle
forward a few feet to remove all play in the axle
A
assembly. Put pencil marks on the inside walls of the
AXLE
tires at equal distances from the floor, and at both the
SPRING
I-BEAM
SEATS
front and rear of the tire.
FRONT
Place the pole between the two marks at the front
of the tire, and set the pointer at zero. Then, use the pole
to measure the distance between the two rear marks.
STEERING ARMS
The distance between the two rear marks should
TIE
conform to the manufacturer's specifications. If not, it
ROD
is necessary to adjust the toe-in.
TIE ROD ENDS
TOE-OUT is the difference in the turning of the
B
inner wheel, with the outer wheel turned at a 20-degree
TOE-IN IS DISTANCE B-A
angle. Toe-out is necessary because of the different
MEASURED IN FRACTIONS OF AN INCH
turning radii of the front wheels and the necessity for
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preventing slipping of the front wheels when turning.
Figure 2-15.--Toe-in.
steering knuckles and linkages, shock absorbers, and
Power Steering Maintenance
wheel bearings are correctly adjusted. If any of the
Since pressure builds up in the power steering
above items cannot be adjusted back to proper
system, the fittings, gaskets, and lines used in the
specifications, then that part or assembly must be
system should be inspected frequently for leaks. When
replaced.
a fitting is found leaking, tighten or replace it. Gaskets
There are a number of devices that may be used for
and packing should be replaced when it is determined
testing wheel alignment. One of the devices used for
that they are leaking or faulty. The level of the fluid in
measuring toe-in is the measuring pole (fig. 2-16).
the power steering system should be checked regularly
Each pole has a pointer and a gauge on one end and can
and refilled as necessary. You should exercise care
be lengthened and shortened like a curtain rod.
when adding fluid, ensuring no foreign matter enters
ASf02016
Figure 2-16.--Measuring pole.
2-12
