Steering system

The mechanism for transmitting the rotary motion of the steering wheel to the steering-gear arm is arranged in the steering-gear case. It is bolted to the frame. In case of a frameless construction, it is attached to a member of the body.

Many motor vehicles, especially passenger cars, are now equipped with the rack-and-pinion steering. It consists of a straight-guided rack arranged at right angles to the driving direction, and a spur-gear pinion, attached to the end of the steering column, engaged with the rack.

This type of steering requires a minimum of joints; as a result, it features long service life and minimum steering slack. It is especially used in case of axleless front-wheel suspension. A friction shock absorber is arranged behind the spur-gear pinion to prevent road shocks from being transmitted to the steering wheel.

The operation of the steering system should not require great effort. The force to be applied to the steering wheel depends on the load of the front wheels. In some special cases it is required to assist the driver's effort by means of a pneumatic or hydraulic servo-steering unit. Generally, this unit consists of a compressed-air cylinder. By means of the piston rod, its piston acts directly on the steering control arm of the front axle, while turning of the steering wheel guides the front wheels and additionally actuates the control valves of the compressed-air cylinder. Thus, rather effortless steering is achieved.

Furthermore, adherence to the specified type pressure is important for a good steering. Besides, troubles in the steering system may be traced back to wrong position of the front wheels.