Steering Wheel Free Play Check

With the engine running (hydraulic operation), set the front wheels straight ahead.
Measure the play on the steering wheel circumference before the wheels start to move when slightly moving the steering wheel in both directions.
Limit: 30 mm (1.2 inch)

Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Free Play
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
When the play exceeds the limit, check for the play on the steering shaft and steering linkage connection. Correct or replace.
If the free play still exceeds the limit value, set the steering wheel straight ahead with the engine stopped. Load 5 N (1.1 pound) towards the steering wheel circumference and check the play.
Standard value (steering wheel play with the engine stopped): 10 mm (0.4 inch) or less
If the play exceeds the standard value, remove the steering gear box (Refer to POWER STEERING GEAR BOX AND LINKAGE ) and check total pinion torque (Refer to GEAR BOX TOTAL PINION TORQUE CHECK ).