What the federal rule covers
49 CFR 393.209 (on eCFR and Cornell's LII) includes a steering wheel lash table by wheel diameter. It also says universal joints and ball-and-socket joints must not be worn, faulty or repaired by welding, steering gear box mounting bolts must be tight, the pitman arm secure, and power steering parts working.
Out-of-service checks
The North American Standard out-of-service criteria and TRW's maintenance guide both flag ball-and-socket joint movement of 1/8 inch or more under hand pressure. TRW's linkage guide covers cracked parts, missing cotter pins and damaged boots too.
Gears and linkage
R.H. Sheppard's instructions cover removing and refitting a gear with correct torque and alignment. A manufacturer's drag link criteria filed with NHTSA show how specific inspection limits can be. Follow the maker's procedure for your part.
Where this comes from
- eCFR: 49 CFR 393.209, steering wheel systems
- North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria, steering section (PDF copy)
- TRW: Steering system maintenance guidelines (PDF)
- TRW: Linkage service information and hazard warnings (PDF)
- R.H. Sheppard: Removing and reinstalling a steering gear (PDF)
- Manufacturer drag link inspection and replacement criteria filed with NHTSA (PDF)
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. General information only: your vehicle and part maker's instructions come first.