Md. Code Regs. 11.22.03.04
Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 19, September 20, 2024
Section 11.22.03.04 - SteeringA. Lash. Inspection of vehicles equipped with power steering shall be conducted with the engine running, power steering fluid at the proper level, and belts in proper condition and tension. | Procedures: | Reject Vehicle If: |
| (1) With front wheels in straight ahead position, turn steering wheel observed until turning motion can be observed at the front wheels. Mark rim of steering wheel and, using a pointer, turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction until motion can be observed at front wheels. Measure distance between mark and pointer. | (1) Measurement at rim of steering wheel exceeds the following: Wheel diameter less than 21 inches-3 inches; 21 inches or greater-3.5 inches. |
B. Front Wheel Bearings. With front wheels raised, grasp wheel and tire assembly at top and bottom and rock wheel in and out. Wheel bearing movement is determined by movement of brake drum and backing plate or brake disc and shields. Do not confuse suspension or ball joint play with wheel bearing play. | Procedures: | Reject Vehicle If: |
| (1) With front wheels raised, rock top and bottom of tire and wheel assembly. Observe wheel bearing play. | (1) Wheel bearing play measured at sidewall of tire exceeds 1/8 inch. |
C. Steering Travel. Turn steering wheel through full right and full left cycle. The vehicle may be slowly moved or the steering wheels raised to ease inspection. Inspect for: | Procedures: | Reject Vehicle If: |
| (1) Binding. | (1) There is binding in a cycle. |
| (2) Jamming. | (2) There is jamming in a cycle. |
| (3) Travel left and right. | (3) Travel from center to full right and center to full left is not within plus or minus 1/2 revolution. |
| (4) Tire clearance when stops are contacted. | (4) There is less than 1 inch clearance between tire and body or chassis when stops are contacted. |
| (5) Steering wheel conditions. | (5) Steering wheel is damaged or is not the original or equivalent. |
D. Steering Linkage. Move steering wheel left and right and observe movement in steering components. If the vehicle is equipped with power steering, run the engine. Visually inspect: | Procedures: | Reject Vehicle If: |
| (1) Tie rods. | (1) Bent or welded. |
| (2) Tie rod ends. | (2) Loose, worn, bent, welded, or modified to disguise wear. |
| (3) Drag link. | (3) Loose, worn, heated, or welded, unless the parts manufacturer requires welding. |
| (4) Pitman arm. | (4) Loose, insecurely mounted, or bolts are loose or missing. |
| (5) Steering box. | (5) Loose, insecurely mounted, or bolts are loose or missing. |
| (6) Lock nuts. | (6) Missing or are not proper type or size. |
| (7) Cotter pins. | (7) Loose or improperly attached. |
E. Power Steering System. Manually and visually inspect entire system for: | Procedures: | Reject Vehicle If: |
| (1) Fluid level. | (1) Less than recommended level. |
| (2) Belts. | (2) Missing, loose, frayed, cracked, or incorrect type. |
| (3) Hoses. | (3) Missing, cracked, leaking, rubbing moving parts, or is improper type. |
| (4) Pump. | (4) Missing, not functioning, loose, or leaking. |
| (5) Cylinder (If applicable). | (5) Missing, not functioning, loose, or leaking. |
| (6) Assist function. | (6) No assist when steering wheel is turned. |
| (7) Steering box. | (7) Loose or leaking. |
F. Collapsible Steering Column (if applicable). Inspect for condition and mounting. | Procedures: | Reject Vehicle If: |
| (1) Grasp steering wheel or column and attempt to move horizontally and vertically. | (1) Steering column moves more than 1/4 inch either horizontally or vertically. |
Md. Code Regs. 11.22.03.04