When inspecting for steering linkage play, what should be done to eliminate wheel bearing play?

When inspecting for steering linkage play, applying the brakes is crucial because it helps to eliminate any potential movement caused by the wheel bearings while the inspection is conducted. By applying the brakes, you secure the wheel in place, which can help in accurately assessing any play in the steering linkage. This ensures that the measurement taken reflects only the play in the steering system rather than any play that may be present in the wheel bearings, which could give a misleading assessment.

When evaluating steering components, it's important to isolate the parts involved in the steering system. If the wheel bearings are loose, they can introduce additional movement that could be mistaken for steering play. Thus, securing the wheels by applying the brakes allows for a more precise evaluation of the steering linkage's condition.

In practical scenarios, other options such as loosening lug nuts or lifting the vehicle may introduce their own complications and may not effectively eliminate wheel bearing play during the inspection. Similarly, rotating the steering wheel does not address the potential movement from the wheel bearings; it merely involves the action of steering rather than securing the components needed for a proper evaluation.