Steering System
Warning: Driving the vehicle without the power-assist feature of the steering system requires much greater effort, especially in sharp turns or at low speeds, which could result in an accident and possible injury.
Notice: Never steam clean or high-pressure wash the steering gear. Internal damage to gear seals, and ultimately the steering gear, can result.
Notice: Avoid turning the tires when they are against a curb, as this places a heavy load on steering components and could damage them.
The power steering system includes the power steering gear, hydraulic hoses, power steering pump, reservoir, steering wheel and column, and other components.
Models equipped with dual steering are also equipped with a separate hydraulic power cylinder on the right side of the front axle or a right-hand secondary gear.
The power steering pump, driven by the engine, provides the power assist for the steering system. If the engine is not running, there is no power assist.
If the power-assist feature does not work due to hydraulic fluid loss, steering pump damage, or another cause, bring the vehicle to a safe stop. Do not drive the vehicle until the cause of the problem has been corrected.
Drivers should carefully use the power available with a power steering system. If the front tires become lodged in a deep hole or rut, drive the vehicle out instead of using the steering system to lift the tires out of the hole.
Steering Wheel Adjustment Check
When there is no load on the vehicle and the front tires are pointed straight ahead, the standard steering wheel spokes should be at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions or within 10 degrees of these positions. See Fig..
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9 o'Clock
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3 o'Clock
Fig. 1, Steering Wheel Centered
If the steering wheel is not in the position above when checked, take