iii Preface At first glance, the study of suspension and steering systems can seem overwhelming. There are a vast number of suspen- sion and steering system designs used in late-model cars, trucks, and sport-utility vehicles. On most late-model vehi- cles, the alignment of both the front and rear wheels must be checked and adjusted. Additionally, there may be electrical and electronic systems that govern suspension and steering operation. It is natural to wonder if, and how, you can gain the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to become a certi- fied suspension and steering technician. Auto Suspension and Steering will help you in your quest to become a suspension and steering technician. It does this by first providing you with a thorough explanation of the various suspension and steering systems found on modern vehicles. This information is followed by detailed instructions for logically diagnosing suspension and steer- ing components. Once the problem has been located, the suspension and steering components must be repaired or replaced. The material in Auto Suspension and Steering will teach you to repair or replace defective suspension and steering parts fill, bleed, and flush power steering systems replace defective electronic control system components and use alignment equipment and tools to perform both two- and four-wheel alignments. Auto Suspension and Steering has been carefully designed so all components are identified and operating principles fully explained before troubleshooting and repair procedures are discussed. The early chapters cover basic parts and operating principles. Later chapters build on the information presented in the early chapters. Each chapter of this text begins with objectives that provide focus for the chapter. A list of important technical terms is also presented at the beginning of each chapter. Be sure to look for these terms as you read the chapter. They will be printed in bold italic type when first used in the body of the chapter and will be defined when introduced. Figure references are printed in bold type for ease of identification. Warnings and cautions are provided when the risk of injury or property damage is present. Notes are used to highlight information that supplements the material presented in the body of the text. Each chapter closes with a Summary, Review Questions, and ASE-Type Questions. ASE certification is becoming increasingly important. Studying the information in Auto Suspension and Steering is a good way to prepare for the ASE tests. This textbook covers what you need to know to pass the ASE Suspension and Steering Certification Test (Test A4). As previously mentioned, a set of ASE-type questions is included at the end of each chapter. These questions are presented in the same format as those found on the actual ASE tests. In addi- tion, Chapter 19 is devoted to information about preparing for and taking the ASE tests. Study the chapters in Auto Suspension and Steering carefully and answer all the questions at the end of each chapter. If you have satisfactorily finished this book, lis- tened carefully to your instructor, and correctly completed the assigned tasks, you should be ready to begin your career as a suspension and steering technician. By choosing Auto Suspension and Steering, you have made a good start in pre- paring for a future in the field of automotive service and repair. Chris Johanson Martin T. Stockel