Steering wheel - centralising

1 This operation is for correcting small errors in steering wheel centralisation - up to 60º.

For larger errors, remove the steering wheel and make a rough correction by repositioning the wheel on refitting.

2 Drive the vehicle in a straight line on a level surface. Note the angle by which the steering wheel deviates from the desired straight-ahead position.

3 Raise the front of the vehicle by driving it onto ramps, or with a jack and axle stands.

4 Slacken both tie-rod end locknuts. Also slacken the steering rack bellows outer clips.

5 Make alignment marks between each tie-rod end and its rod, so that the amount of rotation applied can be accurately determined see illustration).

23.5 Make alignment marks (arrowed) between each tie-rod end and its rod when
23.5 Make alignment marks (arrowed) between each tie-rod end and its rod when centralising the steering wheel

6 Turn both tie-rods in the same direction to correct the steering wheel position. As a rough guide, 19º of tie-rod rotation will change the steering wheel position by 1º. To correct a clockwise error at the steering wheel, rotate both tie-rods anti-clockwise (when viewed from the left-hand side of the vehicle), and the reverse to correct an anticlockwise error. Both tie-rods must be rotated by the same amount.

7 Tighten the bellows clips and the tie-rod end locknuts when adjustment is correct.

Lower the vehicle.

    See also:

    Speed sender unit - removal and refitting
    The sender unit is similar to that used with the fuel computer described in Chapter 12. ...

    Engine - complete dismantling
    1 The need for dismantling will have been dictated by wear or noise in most cases. Although there is no reason why only partial dismantling cannot be carried out to renew such items as the oil pum ...

    Air filter maintenance
    Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the appropriate intervals for changing the air filter element. When changing the air filter element, use only the Motorcraft air filter element listed ...