In order for the directional control valve to be aligned, the steering wheel must be in the straight ahead position.

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Multiple Choice

In order for the directional control valve to be aligned, the steering wheel must be in the straight ahead position.

The key idea is that a directional control valve’s alignment is defined by the valve itself, not by the steering wheel angle. Most DCVs have a centered or neutral spool position that is produced by the valve design and any centering springs or mechanical stops. The steering wheel position is only a reference and can be misleading due to play in the steering column and linkages. Because the wheel can be turned or have slack while the valve isn’t truly centered, the wheel being straight ahead is not a universal requirement for proper DCV alignment. Follow the manufacturer’s procedure and use the valve’s center/neutral marks (not the wheel angle) to align it.

The key idea is that a directional control valve’s alignment is defined by the valve itself, not by the steering wheel angle. Most DCVs have a centered or neutral spool position that is produced by the valve design and any centering springs or mechanical stops. The steering wheel position is only a reference and can be misleading due to play in the steering column and linkages. Because the wheel can be turned or have slack while the valve isn’t truly centered, the wheel being straight ahead is not a universal requirement for proper DCV alignment. Follow the manufacturer’s procedure and use the valve’s center/neutral marks (not the wheel angle) to align it.

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