During an under-the-hood and front-axle pre-trip inspection, a driver assesses the vehicle's mechanical steering linkages and power steering system. Which of the following observations indicates a serious safety defect that prohibits vehicle operation until corrected?
- APower steering belt deflection measuring between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch when pressed firmly at the midpoint of the belt span
- BSteering wheel free play measuring 5 degrees (approximately 1 inch on a 20-inch steering wheel) before front tire movement begins
- A missing cotter pin and loose castle nut at the connection point between the drag link and steering armCevap
- DPower steering reservoir fluid resting exactly at the cold-fill line while the engine is at ambient morning temperature
Cevap
A missing cotter pin and loose castle nut at the connection point between the drag link and steering arm
Mechanical steering components such as the pitman arm, drag link, steering arm, and tie rod rely on tapered studs secured by castle nuts and locked with cotter pins. A missing cotter pin or loose castle nut allows the joint to work free under road vibrations, potentially causing immediate loss of directional control. This condition is a severe defect requiring repair before the vehicle can be operated.
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Anahtar Kavram
Steering linkage fastener security and pre-trip defect identification
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