General steering information

All vehicle models covered in this manual are equipped with rack and pinion steering and power steering. The steering mechanism is attached to the subframe. By turning the steering wheel, the steering gear is rotated, as a result of which the rack is set in motion. On the outer sides of the rack there are transverse steering rods connected by ball joints, which, in turn, on the outer sides are connected to the levers of the steering knuckle. Steering gear cups protect both inner ball joints and are used to absorb grease. The steering gear is not adjustable.



Pic. 231. Vehicle steering: 1 - tie rods; 2 - cuffs; 3 - steering gear; 4 - elastic coupling; 5 - steering column; 6 - steering wheel

The lower part of the steering column is attached to the flexible coupling with a clamping plate. The clutch is attached to the steering gear by means of a mounting bolt. A special cuff on the car body seals the guide of the intermediate steering shaft. Most modern cars are equipped with a column adjustable in length and height, the position of which is fixed by means of a lever on its left side. On fig. 231 shows the steering of Ford Mondeo cars.

The principle of operation of the hydraulic booster is as follows: the engine, through a V-belt, drives a rotary pump, which pumps the working fluid into the hydraulic drive. In this case, the gear rack in the hydraulic drive acts as a piston that supplies fluid under pressure. When the steering wheel is turned, the control valve block controls the direction and flow of fluid. The excess liquid flows back into the compensation tank, which is installed in the engine compartment and connected to the pump by a hose. Repair of the hydraulic booster must be carried out at a specialized service station. The power steering system uses the same fluid as the automatic transmission.

Warning: Your safety and the safety of other road users depends on the quality of your steering. Carry out the work with the utmost care and diligence.