Power steering — general information (Opel Frontera A)

All Frontera vehicles are equipped with a nut-and-screw steering system with recirculating balls and hydraulic power steering. Like other components of the car, the design of the steering system has changed. With regard to the steering, this change was made for cars produced since 1997. Earlier models used a steering column with a fixed and height-adjustable steering wheel. Since 1997, only a steering column with height-adjustable steering wheel position has been used. There were also design changes to the steering system on cars produced after 1995. These changes are mentioned when necessary during the repair description.

Steering work requires a certain level of qualification. Almost all modern cars are equipped with airbags for the driver, which creates additional difficulties when carrying out repairs. Qualified auto mechanics are specially trained to work with airbags. This manual does not provide instructions for removing and installing airbags.

When performing work on the steering system, keep the following in mind:

• All threaded connections that have been coated with Loctite must be lapped before reuse. The exception is microencapsulated bolts. Opel recommends using product No. 15 10 177 to secure threaded connections.
• Tighten all hydraulic system hose clamps to a torque of 3.5 Nm.
• Adhesives and sealants have a certain service life. Do not use these substances if their expiration date has passed.
• After cables are disconnected during repairs, they must be re-fastened with clamps. Simply hanging cables is not permitted.
• The fluid drained from the power steering system must not be reused. Disposal of liquid must be carried out in accordance with current regulations.
• When performing most steering work, the vehicle must be supported on stands.

(Article posted on Internet portal: «Opelbook.ru»)

Safety precautions when working with the airbag are given in the next subsection.