The Way Steering Systems Operate
Visually, a car’s steering system may appear simple, but a lot is going on behind the scenes. Specifically, it translates the input from the driver's steering wheel into the necessary movements through mechanical means.
In simple terms, when someone operates the steering wheel, it rotates the steering column, which in turn moves the steering box (rack and pinion). When the steering box moves, the tie rods push or pull the wheels. As a result, it causes them to turn left or right.
Classification of a Steering System: Common Components
The car’s steering system consists of multiple steering parts & components that work together. A typical one is composed of:
➔ Steering Wheel: Notably, a steering wheel is a circular structure with a metal core. From the outside, it is made up of polyurethane, leather, or wood. Drivers use this control wheel to steer the vehicle, and it contains various switches, including a light switch, traffic indicator switch, and wiper switch, among others.
➔ Steering Column and Shaft: The shaft can be found fitted inside the hollow steering column. Its working depends on when the wheel moves. However, a little movement enables the shaft to rotate.
➔ Gear Box: The steering gear converts the turning motion into a straight-line motion to the left or right. It is crafted from high-strength steel and features a cast iron or aluminum housing.
➔ Pitman Arm: The Pitman arm, also known as the drop arm, is a component of the engine. It transforms the drag link's force into the steering gear's output torque. In a true sense, it acts as a lever that translates the rotary or angular movement from the steering wheel into linear movement or vice versa.
➔ Drag or Center Link: In a steering system, both play different roles. The center link transfers movement from the inner tie rod to the steering arms on both sides of the vehicle, while the drag link connects the steering box to the steering arm.
➔ Tie Rods: These are the pivot points between the steering rack, steering arm, and steering wheel. The force that moves the steering arm and wheel is transferred from the steering rack to the tie rods.
➔ Steering Knuckles: A steering knuckle or an upright contains the wheel hub or spindle. Moreover, it also connects to the suspension and steering components.
➔ Idler Arms: Idle arms support the pitman arm, which is securely fastened to the vehicle’s frame. It helps in supporting the center link and the tie rod end.
The car’s steering system is an alignment of multiple components that translates the driver’s input into movement. On the contrary, a steering wheel is the contact point. Simply, it is something that a driver holds onto and rotates it to turn. Indeed, a steering system is a perfect example of how innovations in engineering can let you take control on the road.
