SFN-20231011A_Set the “auto” plungers in the steering gear

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TICO Document #: SFN-20231011A (formerly TES-213)

Description of Procedure: Set the axle stops to ensure proper clearance between the steering components and any hard point on the chassis. The following steps will provide the maximum turn angle in each direction

Units Affected: M100 series

Parts Required: None

This procedure is to be implemented after all of the steering parts are properly installed and the vehicle can start and idle.

WARNING: It is important not to turn the input shaft of the steer gear more than one revolution, in any direction, from the time that TICO received it until this procedure is performed.

Instructions:

  1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface, and apply the parking brake and chock wheels.

  2. Raise the steer tires off the ground.

  1. Start the engine and let it run at idle speed.

  1. Turn the steering wheel to the right (clockwise) until the steering wheel stops turning. Hold this position for approximately 5 seconds. Have a second person verify that the axle stop has made contact with the axle stop and that both tires are not interfering with any suspension or frame parts. See Detail “A” to identify components.

  1. Turn the steering wheel to the left (counterclockwise) until the steering wheel stops turning. Hold this position for approximately 5 seconds. Have a second person verify that the axle stop has made contact with the axle stop and that both tires are not interfering with any suspension or frame parts. See Detail “A”

  1. Bring the steering tires back to a centered, straight position. Lower and remove the jack from underneath the steering axle.

  1. With the steering tires touching the ground, turn the steering wheel from stop to stop and verify that the axle is not touching the steering stops. See Detail “B”

  1. If the steering tires reach the proper wheel cut, the setting of the “auto” relief plungers is complete. If the steering tires do not reach full swing ( approximately 45 degrees) proceed to step 9.

Re-setting the “Auto” plungers in the steering gear

  1. With the steering tires in a straight position, reset both the bearing cap plunger (Detail “C”) and the cylinder head plunger (Detail “D”).

  1. With a 1/4” punch and a small hammer, tap on each bore until you feel the plunger bottom out in each bore.

    Important: Do not score the plunger bore. Scoring the bore will cause a leak that cannot be repaired. Do not use excessive force to drive the plungers in. It will damage the bearing cap and rotary valve.

  1. After the “auto” plungers are reset, repeat Steps 1 through 8. Adjust as needed.

  1. Remove “Lock Out, Tag Out” plaque.

  1. Return vehicle to service.