2. Visually inspect the ball joint dust caps and steering rack gear guards for wear or deterioration. Any wear on these components will result in a loss of lubrication resulting in rapid deterioration of the ball joints or steering gear.
3. On vehicles with power steering, check the hoses for fraying or dirt, and the tubes and hose couplings for leaks. Also check for leaks in the protective covers of the steering gear.
4. Take the wheel from above and below and try to rock it (refer to accompanying illustration). There may be a slight play, but if it is large, further investigation is needed. Continue pumping the wheel while the assistant presses the brake pedal. If the play is now eliminated or reduced, then the hub bearings are faulty. If there is still play, then there is wear in the suspension joints.
5. Now take the wheel on the sides and try to rock it as before. Any movement can be caused by worn hub bearings or steering tie rod ball joints. If the inner or outer ball joint is worn, visual movement will be evident.
6. Using a large screwdriver or flat bar, check the upper bushings in the suspension for wear by lifting up the suspension components. There should be some movement as the bushings are made of rubber, but excessive wear should be evident. Also check the condition of all visible rubber bushings.
7. With the vehicle on wheels, have an assistant turn the steering wheel back and forth one eighth of a turn. There should be some play between the steering wheel and the wheels. If this is not the case, inspect the joints and bushings previously described, also check the steering column universal joints for wear and the rack and pinion itself.
Checking the rear suspension
1. Block the front wheels, then jack up the rear of the vehicle and place it securely on axle stands.
2. Working as above, inspect the rear wheel hub bearings, suspension bushings, and shock mounts for signs of wear.
Shock absorber check
Note. Shock absorbers must always be replaced in pairs.
1. Check for fluid leaks around the shock body. If a leak is found, the shock absorber should be replaced.
2. The effectiveness of the shock absorber can be tested by rocking the car from each side. The vehicle should return to its normal position. If the car continues to rock, the shock absorber is probably defective. Also inspect the upper and lower shock mounts for wear.