check lexus LS400 1994 Keys and Doors / 1994 LS400: CHASSIS

SECTION 6 – 3
203
SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis
Specifications204 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking brake fluid206 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking brake pedal freeplay206 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking brake pedal clearance207 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking parking brake adjustment207 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the brake booster207 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking power steering fluid208 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking steering wheel freeplay209 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking automatic transmission fluid209 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking tire pressure211 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rotating tires212 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and replacing tires212 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing snow tires and chains214 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing wheels215 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aluminum wheel precautions216 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CHASSIS
206
CHECKING BRAKE FLUID
To check the fluid level, simply look at the see-through
reservoir. The level should be between the “MAX” and
“MIN” lines on the tank.
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the
brake pads wear. So be sure to keep the reservoir filled.
If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a
serious mechanical problem.
If the level is low, add FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703
brake fluid to the brake reservoir.
Remove and replace the reservoir cover by hand. Add brake
fluid up to the dotted line. This brings the fluid to the correct
level when you put the cover back on.
Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake fluid
absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture can cause
a dangerous loss of braking efficiency.CAUTION:
Use caution in filling the reservoir because brake fluid can
harm your eyes and damage painted surfaces.
NOTICE (For vehicles with traction control system only):
Idle the engine while pouring brake fluid into the
reservoir.
CHECKING BRAKE PEDAL
FREEPLAY
1 − 6 mm
(0.04 − 0.24 in.)
With the engine stopped, first reduce the vacuum in the
booster by depressing the brake pedal several times.
Then lightly and slowly press down on the pedal with your
fingers and measure the distance it moves before slight
resistance is felt.
If the freeplay is more or less than specification, have your
Lexus dealer adjust the brakes.

CHASSIS
207
CHECKING BRAKE PEDAL
CLEARANCE
80 mm (3.1 in.) min.
With the engine running, have someone press the brake
pedal several times and then press hard (approximately
490 N [50 kgf, 110 lb.]) on it. The distance from the asphalt
sheet to the top surface of the pedal should not be less
than specified.
If the clearance is less, your Lexus dealer should adjust the
brakes.
CHECKING PARKING BRAKE
ADJUSTMENT
5 − 7 clicks
Count the number of clicks as you slowly press down on
the parking brake pedal as far as it will go (approximately
294 N [30 kgf, 66.1 lb.]). The adjustment is correct if you
hear 5 to 7 clicks.
If you count more or less clicks, have the parking brake
adjusted by your Lexus dealer.
CHECKING THE BRAKE
BOOSTER
Sit in the driver’s seat and follow the instructions given
below. If your brakes do not operate as described, have
them checked at your Lexus dealer.
1. With the engine stopped, depress the brake pedal several
times: the travel distance should not change.

CHASSIS
2082. With the brake fully depressed, start the engine: the pedal
should move down a little when the engine starts.
3. Depress the brake, stop the engine, and hold the pedal in
for about 30 seconds: the pedal should neither sink nor rise.
4. Restart the engine, run it for about a minute and turn it off.
Then firmly depress the brake several times: the pedal travel
should decrease with each application.
CHECKING POWER STEERING
FLUID
Check the fluid level on the dipstick. If necessary, add
automatic transmission fluid DEXRON®-II.If the vehicle has been driven around 80 km / h (50 mph) for 20
minutes (a little more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is hot
(60
C − 80
C or 140
F − 175
F). You may also check the level
when the fluid is cold (about room temperature, 10
C − 30
C
or 50
F − 85
F) if the engine has not been run for about five
hours.
If cold O.K.
If cold add
If hot O.K.
If hot add
a. Clean all dirt off the reservoir.
b. Remove the filler cap by turning it counterclockwise and
wipe the dipstick clean.
c. Reinstall the filler cap.
d. Remove the filler cap again and look at the fluid level. If the
fluid is cold, the level should be in the “COLD” range on the
dipstick. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level should be in the
“HOT” range. If the level is at the low side of either range, add
automatic transmission fluid DEXRON
®-II to bring the level
within the range.
e. After replacing the filler cap, visually check the steering box
case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or damage.

CHASSIS
209 CAUTION:
The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn
yourself.
NOTICE:
Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be
damaged.
When adding the power steering fluid, avoid spilling
it. The generator under the power steering reservoir
could be damaged if fluid is spilled on it.
CHECKING STEERING WHEEL
FREEPLAY
30 mm (1.2 in.)
Max.
With the vehicle stopped and the front wheels pointed
straight ahead, rock the steering wheel gently back and
forth. If the freeplay is more than specified, have it
inspected by your Lexus dealer.
Use only a very light finger pressure to rock the wheel slowly.
CHECKING AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION FLUID
1. Check the fluid level only when the transmission is at
normal operating temperature. With the vehicle level, first
set the parking brake and then start the engine. While the
engine is idling, depress the brake pedal and shift the
selector level into each position from “P” to “L” and return
to “P”.
If the vehicle has been driven over 16 km or 10 miles (24 km
or 15 miles in frigid temperatures) and the fluid temperature is
70
C − 80
C (160
F − 175
F), the transmission is at normal
operating temperature.
You may check the level when the transmission is cold. If the
vehicle has not been driven for over five hours and the fluid is
about room temperature 20
C − 30
C (70
F − 85
F), the
transmission is cold.
However, checking a cold transmission is to be used for your
reference only and the transmission must be checked again for
correct level at normal operating temperature.
If the vehicle has just been driven for a long time at high speed,
in city traffic in hot weather, or the vehicle has been pulling a
trailer, an accurate fluid level cannot be obtained. Check the
level after the fluid has cooled down (about 30 minutes).

CHASSIS
210
Lock positionUnlock position
2. With the engine still idling, check the fluid level and
condition on the dipstick. If necessary, add automatic
transmission fluid type T-II or equivalent.
a. Turn the dipstick lever clockwise to unlock position, pull it
out and wipe it clean.
b. Fully reinsert the dipstick.
If hot
O.K.If hot
add
If cold
add
c. Pull the dipstick out and look at the fluid level. If the
transmission is cold, the level should be in the “COOL” range
on the dipstick. Similarly, if it is normal operating temperature,
the fluid level should be in the “HOT” range. If the level is at the
low side of either range, add automatic transmission fluid
type T-II or equivalent to bring the level within the range. (Add
fluid through the dipstick tube, using a funnel.)
d. While checking the fluid level, also check its condition. If
the fluid is black or if it smells burnt, have it changed.
e. After checking, return the dipstick to lock position.
CAUTION:
When the engine is running, keep hands and clothing
away from the moving fan and the engine drive belt.
NOTICE:
Avoid overfilling, or the transmission could be
damaged.

CHASSIS
211
CHECKING TIRE PRESSURE
The recommended cold tire pressures, tire size and the
vehicle capacity weight are given on the label inside the
glovebox lid.
You should check the tire pressures every two weeks or, at
least once a month. And don’t forget the spare! The pressure
for the spare tire should be 220 kPa (2.2 kg / cm
2 or bar, 32 psi).
Incorrect tire pressure can reduce tire life and make your
vehicle less safe to drive.
Low tire pressure results in excessive wear, poor handling,
reduced fuel economy, and the possibility of blowouts from
overheated tires. Also, low tire pressure can cause poor
sealing of the tire bead. If the tire pressure is excessively low,
there is the possibility of wheel deformation and / or tire
separation. So keep your tire pressures at the proper level. If
a tire frequently needs refilling, have it checked by your Lexus
dealer.High tire pressure produces a harsh ride, handling problems,
excessive wear at the center of the tire tread, and a greater
possibility of tire damage from road hazards.
The following instructions for checking tire pressure should be
observed:
The pressure should be checked only when the tires are
cold. If your vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours and
has not been driven for more than 1.5 km or 1 mile since, you
will get an accurate cold tire pressure reading.
Always use a tire pressure gauge. The appearance of the
tire can be misleading. Besides, tire pressures that are even
just a few pounds off can degrade handling and ride.
Do not bleed or reduce tire pressure after driving. It is
normal for the tire pressure to be higher after driving.
Never exceed the vehicle capacity weight. The
passengers and luggage weight should be located so that
the vehicle is balanced.
Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation valve caps. Without
the valve caps, dirt or moisture could get into the valve core
and cause air leakage. If the caps have been lost, have new
ones put on as soon as possible.

CHASSIS
212
ROTATING TIRES
To equalize tire wear and help extend tire life, Lexus
recommends that you rotate your tires approximately
every 12000 km (7500 miles). However, the most
appropriate timing for tire rotation may vary according to
your driving habits and road surface conditions.
The wheel assemblies must be rotated only between the front
and rear as illustrated above.
When rotating tires, check for uneven wear and damage
Abnormal wear is usually caused by incorrect tire pressure,
improper wheel alignment, out-of-balance wheels, or severe
braking.Before storing radial, snow or studded tires, mark the direction
of rotation and be sure to install them in the same direction
when using them again. Tires should be stored in a cool dry
place.
CHECKING AND REPLACING
TIRES
When to replace your tires
New tread
Tread wear indicatorWorn tread
Replace the tires when the tread wear indicators show.
Their location is shown by the “TWI” or “
” marks molded
on the sidewall of each tire.

CHASSIS
213 The tires on your Lexus have built-in tread wear indicators to
help you know when the tires need replacement. When the
tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less, the indicators
will appear. If you can see the indicators in two or more
adjacent grooves, the tire should be replaced.
The effectiveness of snow tires is lost if the tread wears
down below 4 mm (0.16 in.).
If you have tire damage such as cuts, splits, cracks deep
enough to expose the fabric, or bulges indicating internal
damage, the tire should be replaced.
If a tire often goes flat or cannot be properly repaired due to the
size or location of a cut or other damage, it should be replaced.
If you are not sure, consult with your Lexus dealer.
If an air loss occurs while driving, do not continue driving with
a deflated tire. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire
beyond repair.
Any tires which are over 6 years old must be checked by
a qualified technician even if damage is not obvious.
Tires deteriorate with age even if they have never or seldom
been used.
This also applies to the spare tire and tires stored for future
use.
Uniform tire quality grading
This information has been prepared in accordance with
regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration of the U.S Department of Transportation.
It provides the purchasers and / or prospective
purchasers of Lexus vehicles with information on uniform
tire quality grading.
Your Lexus dealer will help answer any questions you may
have as you read this information.
DOT quality grades − All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to
these grades. These quality grades are molded on the
sidewall.
Treadwear − The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified government test course. For
example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1-1 / 2)
times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual
conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly
from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction A, B, C − The traction grades, from highest to lowest,
are A, B and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on
wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on
specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A
tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

CHASSIS
214Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on
braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include
cornering (turning) traction.
Temperature A, B, C − The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C
corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum
required by law.
Warning: The temperature grade of this tire is established for
a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately
or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire
failure.
Tire selection
When replacing a tire, use only the same size and
construction as originally installed and with the same or
greater load capacity.
Using any other size or type of tire may seriously affect
handling, ride, speedometer / odometer calibration, ground
clearance, and clearance between the body and tires or snow
chains.Do not mix radial, belted, or conventional tires on your
vehicle.
It can cause dangerous handling characteristics, resulting in
loss of control. If you need to change from conventional tires
to radial tires or vice versa, replace them as a set.
INSTALLING SNOW TIRES AND
CHAINS
When to use snow tires or chains
Snow tires or chains are recommended when driving on
snow or ice.
On wet or dry roads, conventional or radial tires provide better
traction than snow or studded tires.
Snow tire selection
If you need snow tires, select the same size, construction
and load capacity as the original tires on your Lexus.
Do not use tires other than stated above. Since your vehicle
has radial tires as original equipment, make sure your snow
tires also have radial construction. Do not install studded tires
without first checking local regulations for possible restrictions.