Explain Rack & Pinion Steering
The most dominant steering technology in the automotive industry, rack and pinion steering is popular due to its simplicity. As the name suggests, it consists of only two main components: a steering rack and a pinion shaft.
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Identification
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The rack is a long piece of metal. One side is flat with teeth running its length. The pinion is a round rod with teeth of its own.
Function
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The pinion shaft enters the steering rack at a 90-degree angle and is held in place by a collar. The teeth of the steering rack and pinion shaft mesh together. When the steering wheel is turned, the pinion, which is connected to the steering column, shifts the rack to move the wheels.
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Effects
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When a driver turns the steering wheel left, the pinion shaft turns counter-clockwise, moving the rack to the right. This forces out the right tire and pulls in the left, making the car turn left.
Benefits
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Rack and pinion steering requires only inner and outer tie rods for linkage components. Since there are so few parts involved, the system breaks less often, provides enhanced road feel and delivers greater responsiveness.
History
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Engineer Arthur E. Bishop invented rack and pinion steering.
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