Suspension
Under bonnet checks
- upper suspension joints
- any other suspension components which may be visible from under the bonnet
Under vehicle checks
Applies to the front and rear suspension
- presence and security of split-pins and nuts
- no components broken or excessively damaged
- road springs are checked for condition
- all suspension joints are checked for condition
- shock absorbers must not leak and must be secure (the vehicle will be 'bounced' by the Tester to check that they damp the springs adequately).
The suspension is checked for wear by the assistant applying loads in various ways with the wheels jacked up whilst the Tester observes the result from beneath the vehicle.
N.B: There are many different suspension systems, and the specific etails of any test will depend on the design of the suspension system.
Steering
Interior checks
Steering wheel and steering column:
- steering wheel is in good condition and not broken or damaged excessively
- steering wheel is securely attached to the steering shaft
- adjustable steering columns must be secure
- upper support bearings of the column are checked for wear
- the steering shaft is checked for excessive end float
- all clamping bolts are checked for security
- Split-pins and other locking devices are checked.
- 'free play' in the steering is checked
- All flexible couplings and universal joints checked for wear
Under bonnet checks
N.B Some of these items cannot be observed from under the bonnet on certain makes and models of vehicle.
- security of the steering rack or steering box and its mountings
- play in steering joints
- Inspection of any other swivel joints which form part of the vehicles' steering system which can be readily inspected from under the bonnet.
- Power steering drive system, reservoir and hoses checked for security and leaks where applicable. (done whilst engine is running)
Under vehicle checks:
- All the steering joints are inspected by the Tester for excessive play or deterioration whilst the steering is shaken side to side by an assistant.
- Power steering systems are checked with the engine running
- The security of attachment of the steering rack or box is checked with respect to the presence and security of fixings, and structural condition of the chassis to ensure there is no cracking, corrosion or excessive distortion in surrounding areas
- When the front wheels are on special turning plates, the steering is turned from full lock to lock and checked to ensure that the wheels and tyres do not foul either the structure of the vehicle or any brake pipes or hoses
- with the wheels jacked up off the ground, the wheel bearings are checked for play and roughness
- steering rack gaiters and front outer constant velocity joint boots are examined
- metal and/or rubber bushes are checked as are split-pins, locking nuts and other locking or retaining devices which relate to steering components.
Some vehicles have rear wheel steering also. This is checked for condition and security from beneath the vehicle and once again, surrounding areas are checked for corrosion, cracks and distortion.
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Suspension and steering