How To Understand the Steering System We all know that the steering system of a car is used to guide the vehicle in the direction we wish to go, but exactly how is this accomplished? The theory of operation is extremely simple (turn the steering wheel and the front wheels steer in that direction), however, a great deal of engineering and refinements over the years have made modern steering systems into a technological marvel. Why does the average vehicle of today handle so much better than those of yesteryear? Over time, much has been learned about the physics that affect how any given automobile moves along the road. Wheel alignment, the geometric placement of ball joints, and suspension design all play a major role in helping us keep our cars under control in a variety traffic conditions. However, to stay true to the subject of this article, we will examine just the basics of the steering system. STEERING WHEEL. The steering wheel is the first component of the steering system. It is round. This makes it easy to grip at any angle. Why is this important? Because when you’re driving home after a long day, your teenager has the stereo up to ninety decibels, your baby in the back seat is crying at one hundred decibels, an angry driver just flashed you an indecent gesture, and a bus runs a stop sign and pulls out directly in your path, you don’t want to have to take the time to find the grips on an oddly shaped steering wheel. You just want to turn that wheel as fast as you can to protect your family and yourself from harm. Steering wheels are also made of materials that are easy to hold and the core is strong enough to withstand severe maneuvering yet weak enough to collapse when hit by your body in a frontal crash. STEERING COLUMN. The steering column contains a shaft that is attached to the steering wheel at one end and the steering gear box at the other. When you turn the wheel, that force is applied to the steering box via the shaft. Like the wheel, modern steering columns collapse in a frontal collision to avoid injuring the driver. STEERING BOX. This is the most complicated part of the steering system and subsists in two common variations, rack and pinion and recirculating ball. Both perform the function of providing a mechanical advantage to the driver making it possible to steer the wheels even when physical forces on the vehicle are resisting the action. Rack and pinion steering consists of a small gear (the pinion) connected to the steering column Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil