198003033 - INTRODUCTION - STEERING
ATTENTION
When necessary, the electric steering control device should be replaced together with the intermediate shaft.It is however only possible to replace the intermediate shaft after having removed the electric steering control device assembly from the vehicle. | In order not to damage the intermediate shaft, the electric steering control device must be removed from the vehicle after the bolt has been unscrewed and the fork connecting the steering box pinion and the intermediate shaft has been taken out. |
WARNINGS
All the operations should be carried out taking great care to avoid damaging components.Avoid the brake/clutch fluid coming into contact with the paintwork; if this does happen, wash immediately with water.Before carrying out any operation involving electrical system components, including disconnecting the battery, make sure that the ignition key is in the STOP position.To release parts that are sticking, tap gently with an aluminium or lead hammer if iron materials are involved: use a wooden or resin hammer for light alloy parts.When removing, check that all components bear the correct reference marks.When refitting, lubricate the parts, where necessary, to prevent seizing or binding during the initial operating period. When refitting it is vital to follow the tightening torques and adjustment data.Each time they are refitted, replace gaskets, oil seals, flexible washers, safety washers, self-locking nuts, pre-treated screws and all parts that have deteriorated.Only genuine spare parts should be used to replace units or components that have been removed: this is the only way of ensuring the interchangeability and perfect operation of the various components.Always carefully check every part of the steering that has (or may have) undergone an impact (e.g. following an accident). Replace all damaged parts or parts assumed to be damaged (take note that the intermediate shaft is the only part that may be replaced individually on the electric steering control device).Check and immediately correct the cause of any clearance or vibration that may occur in any part of the steering or the steering mechanism.Do not use the steering if it is damaged or broken. Replace components with original parts only and follow installation instructions carefully.Do not deform any steering component when hot or cold.Take care when handling the electric steering control device since the outer cover may reach temperatures of 85 degrees centigrade following repeated manoeuvres under load; for example during parking or repeated actions at low speed.Failure to cut off the ignition during maintenance with the wheels raised may cause physical damage due to electrical operation of the electric steering control device. To eliminate this potential risk, the steering wheel must be locked with the wheels straight ahead and the ignition key removed. If this is not possible due to the need to have the key in the MAR position or the engine running, the electric steering device power fuse must be removed before carrying out any operation. | The battery should not be disconnected until at least 20 seconds after key-off, in order to allow the electric steering control device to complete the shut down procedure. |