Steering System
WARNING:Failure to maintain the steering system in proper
condition can cause reduced steering ability resulting in property
damage, personal injury or death.
Note:Have any steering problems immediately corrected by a qualified
service technician.
Ask your service technician to examine the steering mechanism. Only
minor adjustments may be necessary. Regular inspections should include:
•checking the tie rod, drag link end clamp bolts and ball joints for
proper tightness.
•checking for installation and spread of cotter pins and tightness of
nuts at both ends of the tie rod and drag link.
•checking that the pitman arm (steering arm at steering gear)
mounting is tight and locked. Check system for leaks or hose chafing.
Repair immediately, if necessary.
•maintaining proper steering gear and power steering pump lubricant
levels.
•checking steering column joint bolts and steering linkage, particularly
for body-to-chassis clearance.
Steering Column Joint Bolts
As a good maintenance practice, it is recommended that steering column
joint bolts be checked for tightness every 60000 miles (96000 kilometers)
or annually, whichever occurs first. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
Hydraulic System
Whenever the power steering’s hydraulic system has been drained and
refilled for any reason, air must be bled from the system before returning
the vehicle to service. Failure to properly bleed the hydraulic system can
result in degradation of power system performance.
Consult your dealer who is aware of the proper procedures for filling and
bleeding the system.
212Maintenance
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)
