Dodge Dakota (ND). Manual - part 891
LOOSE STEERING AND VEHICLE LEAD
CONDITION
POSSIBLE CAUSE
CORRECTION
EXCESSIVE PLAY IN STEERING
WHEEL
1. Worn or loose suspension or
steering components.
1. Inspect and repair as necessary.
2. Worn or loose wheel bearings.
2. Inspect and repair or adjust
bearings.
3. Steering gear mounting.
3. Tighten gear mounting bolts to
specification.
4. Gear out of adjustment.
4. Replace gear.
5. Worn or loose steering coupler.
5. Inspect and replace as
necessary.
VEHICLE PULLS OR LEADS TO
ONE SIDE.
1. Tire Pressure.
1. Adjust tire pressure.
2. Radial tire lead.
2. Rotate tires.
3. Brakes dragging.
3. Repair as necessary.
4. Wheel alignment.
4. Align front end.
POWER STEERING FLOW AND PRESSURE
The following procedure is used to test the operation
of the power steering system on the vehicle. This test
will provide the gallons per minute (GPM) or flow rate
of the power steering pump along with the maximum
relief pressure. Perform test any time a power steering
system problem is present. This test will determine if
the power steering pump or power steering gear is not
functioning properly. The following pressure and flow
test is performed using Power Steering Analyzer Tool
kit 6815 (3) Adapter Kit 6893 and 6825A.
FLOW AND PRESSURE TEST
1. Check the power steering belt to ensure it is in
good condition and adjusted properly.
2. Connect pressure gauge hose from the Power
Steering Analyzer to Tube 6825A.
3. Connect Adapter 6826 to Power Steering Analyzer test valve end.
4. Disconnect the high pressure hose from the power steering pump.
5. Connect the tube to the pump hose fitting.
6. Connect the power steering hose from the steering gear to the adapter.
7. Open the test valve completely.
8. Start engine and let idle long enough to circulate power steering fluid through flow/pressure test gauge and to get
air out of the fluid. Then shut off engine.
9. Check fluid level, add fluid as necessary. Start engine again and let idle.
10. Gauge should read below 862 kPa (125 psi), if above, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as neces-
sary. The initial pressure reading should be in the range of 345-552 kPa (50-80 psi).
11. Increase the engine speed to 1500 RPM and read the flow meter. If the flow rate (GPM) is below specification,
(refer to pump specification chart for GPM) the pump should be replaced.
CAUTION: The following test procedure involves testing maximum pump pressure output and flow control
valve operation. Do not leave valve closed for more than three seconds as the pump could be damaged.
19 - 4
STEERING
ND