Pretrip Inspection and Daily Maintenance such as cracks or breaks, to one leaf causes hidden damage to other leaves. Replacement of only the visibly damaged part(s) is no assurance that the spring is safe. If cracks or breaks exist on front spring assemblies in either of the two top leaves, a loss of vehicle control could occur. Failure to re- place a damaged spring assembly could cause an accident resulting in serious personal injury or property damage. 24. Clean the inside of the windshield, the gauges on the dash, and all window glass. 25. Check the steering wheel for excessive play. With the front tires straight ahead, turn the steering wheel until motion is observed at the front wheels.
Align a reference mark on a ruler, then slowly turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction until motion is again detected at the wheels. Measure the lash (free play) at the rim of the steering wheel. See Fig. 9.2 . 23. Clean the headlights, rearview mirrors, and the out- side of the windshield and all window glass. Check the condition of the windshield wiper arms and blades. Excessive lash exists if steering wheel movement exceeds 4-3/4 inches (121 mm) with a 20-inch (470-mm) steering wheel. If there is excessive lash, check the steering system for wear or incorrect ad- justment of the linkage and steering gear before operating the vehicle.
Be sure the windshield wiper blades are tensioned against the windshield. Inspect the wiper blades for damage and deteriorated rubber. Replace the wiper arms if the wiper blades are not tensioned against the windshield. Replace damaged or deteriorated wiper blades. 26. Adjust the driver’s seat, then align the rearview mir- rors. 27. Inspect the seat belts and tether belts if so equipped. See Fig. 9.3 . WARNING Replace wiper arms and blades when necessary to maintain good visibility. Poor visibility could inter- fere with the driver’s ability to control the vehicle, possibly resulting in serious personal injury or death. WARNING Inspect and maintain seat belts as instructed below.
Worn or damaged seat belts could fail during a sud- den stop or crash, possibly resulting in serious in- jury or death. 9.13