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:

    Air Charge Temperature (ACT) sensor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 The air charge temperature sensor is screwed into the inlet manifold (see illustration). 14.1 Air charge temperature sensor - 1.6 EFI engine A Wiring plug B Sensor 2 Disconnect the b ...

    Crankshaft front oil seal - renewal
    1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Slacken the alternator mounting and adjuster bolts and after pushing the alternator in towards the engine, slip off the drivebelt. 3 Unscrew and remove th ...

    Air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS)
    Important SRS precautions The SRS is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries. Air bags DO NOT inflate slowl ...