An inspection of the steering components is not a task that can be carried out in a few minutes by looking at the parts. It requires a thorough inspection of each component while the parts are disconnected from the rest of the steering system.
Lifting the Car Safely
Safe Working Practices When Lifting Vehicles. Most inspections of the steering components require the vehicle to be raised on a lift or the use of axle stands, allowing the wheels to be removed and enabling proper access to the steering components. A supported vehicle is required for proper inspection, an unsupported vehicle is dangerous.
Checking the Steering Rack for Play
With the vehicle raised and the wheel removed from the hub, one person grips the steering wheel and turns it to and fro while the other person grips the track rod end and pushes it to and fro. Any free movement or knocking feeling not transferred to the wheel indicates wear within the steering rack. There should be no free movement at all.
Inspecting Tie Rod Ends
By gripping each tie rod end and gently rocking it up and down you will be able to find a worn ball joint. A worn joint will have vertical play and may even make a clunking sound.
Looking for Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Power Steering fluid leaks are evident when inspecting the rack end fittings, the pump and the hose connections for any signs of oily fluid. New leaks will appear as damp shiny marks on the surface, old leaks can collect a lot of dirt etc. For Steering Parts, see https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/steering-parts/. Here you will find steering parts for many different vehicles.
Examining Rubber Boots and Gaiters
Check the rubber boots on the steering rack ends for splits or tears. The rubber gaiters too should be checked for tears or deterioration. If a gaiter is torn, water and dirt will enter the rack and in no time at all cause damage to the inside of the rack.
A full inspection of your vehicle’s steering components can highlight any potential problems before they affect the vehicle’s handling and before they fail an MOT test.
