Examination
1. Set the wheels to straight ahead, block the wheels. Turn the steering wheel right and left. If there is significant play, then the cause is wear on the wheel bearings (see subsection 2.39), steering column shaft, intermediate shaft, suspension arm ball joints or steering ball joints, or improper adjustment or wear of the steering gear.
2. Abnormal operation and wear of steering and suspension parts are indicated by increased swaying of the body when driving on a bumpy road, skidding when turning, steering wheel sticking.
3. Check the operation of the shock absorbers, for which several times sharply press each corner of the car and release. If after one or two clicks the car body does not return to its original position, then this indicates a failure of the suspension struts and the need to replace them. When pressing and releasing the car, listen for the sounds that the suspension parts make.
Checking from below the car
4. Raise the car and put it on stands.
5. Check the tread pattern and tire pressure.
6. Check the condition of the cardan joint between the steering column and the steering gear housing.
7. Check for oil leaks or seepage through the gaskets on the steering gear housing. Make sure that the seals and protective covers are intact, that the clamps of the protective covers are securely fastened.
8. Check the reliability of the fastening of the steering parts, the absence of mechanical damage on them. Check for play in the steering rack ball joints.
9. Check the tightness of all threaded connections, the presence of broken or loose parts, the condition of the seals (indicated by the arrow in the photo on the left) and rubber suspension bushings (photo on the right).
10. Ask an assistant to turn the steering wheel, while turning the steering wheel, observe the play in the steering parts, the bending of the parts, the freedom of their movement (backlashes). If you find significant play in the steering connections, look for a loose connection.
11. Check the wheel bearings by rotating the wheel and jiggling the top and bottom edges. Noticeable play indicates the need to disassemble the hub and replace the lubricant.
12. Check the condition of the swivel bearings by rocking the swivel assembly up and down. If play is detected, then the condition of the assembly bearings should be checked and the grease replaced.
13. Check the condition of the cardan joints, the presence of play in the sliding fork coupling in the splines of the shaft.
14. Check for leaks in the transfer case and transmission boat.
Undercarriage lubrication
1. Lubrication is carried out with a syringe through lubricators (on some cars, the holes for the oilers are closed with plugs, the oilers are screwed in during lubrication).
2. Start lubrication from the swivel head (lubrication point is indicated by an arrow). Continue lubrication until it appears from the lubricated unit.
3. Next, lubricate the fork of the sliding spline (lubrication point is indicated by an arrow).
4. Lubricate the universal joint (lubrication point is indicated by an arrow).
5. Lubricate steering wheel stop (lubrication point is indicated by an arrow).
6. Lubricate the latches and hood pillar with lithol.
7. Lubricate the hinges and locks of the hood and doors with engine oil.
8. Lubricate the lock switch drums and door seals with an aerosol graphite or silicone lubricant.