Steering wheel - centralising
1 This operation is for correcting small errors in steering wheel centralisation - up to 60º.
For larger errors, remove the steering wheel and make a rough correction by repositioning the wheel on refitting.
2 Drive the vehicle in a straight line on a level surface. Note the angle by which the steering wheel deviates from the desired straight-ahead position.
3 Raise the front of the vehicle by driving it onto ramps, or with a jack and axle stands.
4 Slacken both tie-rod end locknuts. Also slacken the steering rack bellows outer clips.
5 Make alignment marks between each tie-rod end and its rod, so that the amount of rotation applied can be accurately determined see illustration).
23.5 Make alignment marks (arrowed) between each tie-rod end and its rod when
centralising the steering wheel
6 Turn both tie-rods in the same direction to correct the steering wheel position. As a rough guide, 19º of tie-rod rotation will change the steering wheel position by 1º. To correct a clockwise error at the steering wheel, rotate both tie-rods anti-clockwise (when viewed from the left-hand side of the vehicle), and the reverse to correct an anticlockwise error. Both tie-rods must be rotated by the same amount.
7 Tighten the bellows clips and the tie-rod end locknuts when adjustment is correct.
Lower the vehicle.
See also:
Power steering gear - removal and refitting
Note: New power steering fluid hose O-rings
will be required when refitting.
Removal
1 The procedure is as described for manual
steering gear with the following differences
(see illustration).
...
Driveshaft check (Every 12 000 miles or 12 months)
1 Carry out a thorough inspection of the
driveshafts and joints as follows.
2 Jack up the front of the car and support it
securely on axle stands (see “Jacking and
Vehicle Support”).
3 Slowly rot ...
Folding roof (Cabriolet models) - removal and refitting
Removal
1 Remove the rear side, wheel arch and roof
stowage compartment trim panels.
2 Disconnect the heated rear window wiring
and pull it from the weatherstrip.
3 Release the roof front locking ...
