Steering & Suspension: Steering Systems: Steering principles
Steering systems
 
Steering systems are designed according to the use requirements of the vehicle. They can be in single or multi-axle designs.
 
Principles of steering
 
The steering system provides control over direction of travel, good maneuverability, smooth recovery from turns, and minimum transmission of road shocks.
 
Rack-and-pinion steering
 
Rack-and-pinion type steering gears are used because they are compact and light-weight, give sharp steering response, and light operation.
 
Rack-and-pinion steering system
 
The primary components of the rack and pinion steering system are: Rubber bellows; Pinion; Rack; Inner ball joint or socket; Tie-rod.
 
Recirculating ball & nut steering system
 
The primary components of the recirculating ball and nut steering system are: Pitman arm shaft; Idler arm; Track rod or center link; Tie-rod; Tie-rod end; Adjustment sleeve.
 
Four-wheel steering systems
 
The relationships between the steering system, the wheel positions, and the suspension system, form what is called the steering geometry.