The automobile world includes several significant components to make the cars drive and handle better. One such critical component consists of the system. System that is very important because this particular system allows drivers to steer their cars smoothly and effortlessly. In this lesson we will explore rack pinion steering and the evolution of steering our vehicles over the years.
Once upon a time, there was a different steering system more prevalent in car design known as recirculating ball system. This was a big, heavy system and one not as good as the steering systems we have today. It impaired drivers’ ability to guide their cars accurately. And then in the 1960s came a completely new steering system called rack pinion steering. Suspension systems had been getting lighter and smarter, and making it easier for drivers to control their cars.
The rack pinion steering system consists of two major parts that work together: the rack and the pinion. The rack is a long metal bar that has serrated, tooth-like protrusions on one side, which sort of resembles a comb. The pinion is a gear that spins and meshes with the teeth on the rack. As the pinion rotates, it causes the rack to slide left and right. It is this reciprocal motion of the rack which assists the vehicle in turning left or right effectively.
Rack pinion steering is far superior to the old recirculating ball-type system. For one, it is much lighter and occupies less room in the cabin. That allows for smaller, lighter cars that can save gas and be more fuel-efficient. Second, rack pinion steering is a lot more precise. This allows drivers to turn the cars more easily and effectively, which results in a better performance of their cars. This is useful for sharp turns, making lane changes, and so on. To conclude, rack pinion steering is much easier to repair when compared to an older system. This means drivers can spend less time worrying about repairs and more time enjoying their cars.
To understand it better we can take a closer look on how the rack pinion steering system works. So, when the driver rotates the steering wheel, a signal is sent to the pinion to rotate. This causes the pinion to rotate which translates the movement of the rack. When moving the rack pushes over the tie rods attached to the wheels. It is this tie rod movement that causes the car to turn left or right. It’s an incredible procedure that helps drivers manage their cars methodically and carefully.
Jiayou makes rack pinion steering systems. They seemed to be constantly focused on improving their systems and processes. Their advanced systems allow the driver to better control the cars for a smoother ride on the road. This makes driving a lot easier effort.