vehicles have an adjustment on only one side of the linkage. If there is only one sleeve,
the steering wheel cannot be
centered without removing the
wheel.
Some vehicles have two sleeves,
one for adjusting toe, and one for
centering the steering wheel.
When adjusting this type of
vehicle, always set the toe first,
and then the center wheel.
It is typical practice to center the
steering wheel again once toe
has been set. This is especially
useful when the toe has been
changed a great deal. If the toe
is now different on each side,
reset it as necessary. If the toe is
still equal on both sides, tighten
the sleeve bolts or locknuts as
applicable.
It is advisable to torque the
fasteners to manufacturer's
specifications. Some vehicles
with conventional steering have
Figure 9-24 -
Tie-rod locknut on a rack-
and-pinion steering assembly.
a specific location for the tie-rod adjusting sleeve clamp bolts. If the bolts are not placed
in this position, they could contact other underbody parts. On any vehicle, make sure
the bolts cannot contact any part of the underbody.
Centering the Steering Wheel after Alignment.
After the toe has been set, you may find that the steering wheel is slightly off center
when the vehicle is driven in a straight line. To straighten the steering wheel without
affecting toe, first drive the vehicle back onto the alignment rack. Make sure the turn
plates are not locked and place the steering wheel in the centered position. Install the
steering wheel lock.
Raise the vehicle to a comfortable working height and loosen the toe adjuster locknuts
or lock bolts at the tie rods. Be sure not to move the adjusters themselves. Then sight
down the front and rear of the outside sidewall of one front tire. Then sight down the
outside of the other tire. One tire will appear to be toed in and the other will appear to be
toed out. Turn each adjuster the same amount until both tires are straight ahead. For
example, if the right adjuster is turned out % turn, the left adjuster should b e moved %
turn.
Tire position can be determined by sighting down the outside sidewall of each front tire.
The front tires are straight when sighting down the front and rear sidewall allows you to
see the outer sidewall of the rear tire. Once the tires appear to be pointed straight
ahead, remove the steering wheel lock and turn the wheel from side to side several
times. Then center the steering wheel and sight down the tire sidewalls again. Readjust
the tire position if necessary. Once both tires are straight, retighten the adjuster
locknuts. Lower the vehicle and road test to determine whether the steering wheel is
straight. If the steering wheel is still not centered, repeat the centering procedure as
needed.
NAVEDTRA 14050A
9-31
