This Preliminary Information communication provides the technician with the following steps to correct a...

Bulletin number

PIP5097

Component

Steering

Summary

This Preliminary Information communication provides the technician with the following steps to correct a moan noise from the rear axle during cold turning maneuvers. This noise might start to be noticed as the vehicle accumulates over 3000 miles. The technician is to perform the following steps. 1. With original lube in axle, conduct Freeway Speeds for 10 miles to warm up lube. 2. Immediately drain original lube and refill with fresh lube. 3. In parking lot lock steering to the right, and then execute 5 Full Circles at (5-10 mph). 4. . In parking lot lock steering to the left, and then execute 5 Full Circles at (5-10 mph). 5. Perform 4 Figure 8?s at (5-10 mph). 6. Freeway Speeds for 20 miles until operating temperature is achieved. 7. In parking lot lock steering to the right, and then execute 5 Full Circles at (5-10 mph). 8. In parking lot lock steering to the left, and then execute 5 Full Circles at (5-10 mph). 9. Perform 4 Figure 8?s at (5-10 mph). 10. Immediately drain current lube in axle and refill with fresh lube. 11. Perform Steps 3 thru 9 again. 12. Immediately drain current lube in axle and refill with fresh lube. Proceed with steps 2 through 9 two times, for a total of 3 drain and fill procedures. This should only be done for a moan noise from the rear axle during cold start turning maneuvers. During regular maintenance the fluid only needs to be changed one time.

Owners of these vehicles have filed 31 complaints in the steering category.