(NCT) Manual 2010 - Road Safety Authority

NATIONAL CAR TEST (NCT) MANUAL 2010
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STEERING LINKAGE
Method of Testing
1. With the road wheels on the ground and the steering wheel rotated clockwise and anti-clockwise against the road resistance,
examine the steering mechanism from the point where it is secured to the chassis to the point where the steering arms are
secured to their fixings. For vehicles fitted with power steering, it may be necessary to have the engine running.
During this inspection check for:
(a) excessive wear at joints.
(b) fracture of or damage to components.
(c) insecure components.
2. With steered wheels off the ground (using the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended jacking points):
(a) check for fouling of wheels, tyres and components of the steering linkage with any part of the vehicle by rotating the
steering wheel through its full working range and also by examining likely fouling points for abrasion.
(b) while the steering wheel is being rotated, also check the steering column shaft and steering box/rack for stiffness or worn
or damaged bearings.
(c) note the amount of movement between the axle beam and the stub axle whilst each wheel in turn is rocked. Alternatively
a wheel play detector device may be used.
(d) note the amount of upward movement of the stub axle, whilst each wheel in turn is lifted with a bar placed underneath it.
(e) examine visible parts of the stub axle for condition and security.
(f) where possible, examine the king pin retaining device.
3. For Integral Power Steering;
Check by the feel on the steering wheel that the power steering is operating by rocking the steering wheel with the engine
running and the road wheels on the ground.
NOTES
1. All steered axles are to be examined.
2. If power steering is optional on the vehicle type concerned, and is fitted to the particular vehicle but has
been disconnected in such a way that it can have no adverse effect on the manual steering, this should
not be regarded as a defect.
3. Welding of steering parts other than by a manufacturer is not acceptable.
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