Virginia State Inspection Practice Test

In a manual steering system, lash measurement is critical for ensuring that the steering mechanism operates effectively and safely. The acceptable lash measurement typically correlates with the diameter of the steering wheel. For a steering wheel with a diameter of 20 inches, guidelines usually dictate that the acceptable lash measurement should be approximately one-quarter of the wheel diameter.

When calculating this for a 20-inch steering wheel, the expected lash measurement would be around 5 inches. Among the provided options, 5 1/2 inches is the closest acceptable measurement, as it remains within a reasonable range that would not compromise the steering's responsiveness or safety.

Choosing a measurement that is too high could indicate excessive wear or play in the steering system, potentially leading to handling issues. Similarly, a lash measurement significantly less than acceptable would not provide the necessary slack for safe operation and could hinder steering control. Thus, 5 1/2 inches is the most permissible option as it adheres to industry standards for lash tolerance in manual steering systems.