STEERING AND FRONT SUSPENSION
Rack and Pinion
7
RACK AND PINION
See General Warning on page 1-2.
CAUTION
• Front impacts that bend tie rods and/or drag links can possibly damage internal steering gear
components. See Rack and Pinion Inspection on page 7-5. The manufacturer recommends inspecting
the rack and pinion and replacing it if damaged.
RACK AND PINION INSPECTION
1.
Look for obvious damage to the chassis, where the rack and pinion is mounted, and the rack and pinion housing.
Particularly check the housing for broken mounting points.
2.
Compare the toe-in to the specification.
See Toe-Out Adjustment on page 7-7.
3.
If obvious visible damage is found, such as a bent tie rod, check the steering gear for abnormal free-play,
noise, binding or clunking while it is under a load.
3.1. With the steering system fully assembled and all four tires on the ground/floor, turn the steering wheel from
stop to stop. While turning, feel for any binding, clunking or tight/loose spots. Listen for unusual noises.
3.2. Replace the rack and pinion as an assembly if any damage is found.
4.
In the event of a known impact but obvious visible damage is not found by using the method described above,
check for hidden damage.
4.1. Disconnect the tie rods and/or drag links from the spindles.
4.2. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop. While turning, feel for any binding or tight/loose spots. Listen for
unusual noises.
4.3. Replace the rack and pinion as an assembly if any damage is found.
RACK AND PINION REMOVAL
1.
Disconnect battery and spark plug wire(s).
See Disconnecting the Battery – Gasoline Vehicles on page 1-4.
2.
Lift and support front of vehicle and remove the wheels.
See Lifting The Vehicle, Section 3, Page 3-4.
3.
Remove the tie rod ball joint retaining nuts
.
4.
Using a ball joint removal tool, remove the tie rod ball joints from the steering knuckles.
2009-2012 XRT 950 Maintenance and Service Manual
Page 7-5
