One of the main systems that ensure the safety of movement in a car is steering. The purpose of the steering of the car is the ability to change the direction of movement, make turns and maneuvers when avoiding obstacles or overtaking. This component is just as important as brake system. Proof of this is the prescription of traffic rules, the operation of a car with faulty specified mechanisms is strictly prohibited.
Assembly features and design
On cars, a kinematic method of changing the direction of movement is used, which implies that the implementation of the turn occurs due to a change in the position of the steered wheels. Usually the front axle is controlled, although there are also cars with a so-called steering system. The peculiarity of working in such cars is that the wheels rear axle also rotate when changing direction, albeit at a smaller angle. But so far this system has not received wide distribution.
In addition to the kinematic method, the technique also uses power. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that to make a turn, the wheels of one side slow down, while on the other side they continue to move at the same speed. And although this way of changing direction to passenger cars did not receive distribution, it is still used on them, but in a slightly different capacity - as a system of exchange rate stability.
This vehicle assembly consists of three main elements:
- steering column;
- steering gear;
- drive (system of rods and levers);
Steering knot
Each component has its own task.
Steering column
Performs the transfer of rotational force that the driver creates to change direction. It consists of a steering wheel located in the passenger compartment (the driver acts on it by rotating it). It is rigidly planted on the column shaft. In the device of this part of the steering, a shaft is often used, divided into several parts, interconnected by cardan joints.
This design is not made just like that. Firstly, it allows you to change the angle of the steering wheel relative to the mechanism, to shift it in a certain direction, which is often necessary when arranging constituent parts auto. In addition, this design allows you to increase the comfort of the cabin - the driver can change the position of the steering wheel in terms of reach and tilt, providing the most comfortable position.
Secondly, the composite steering column tends to “break” in the event of an accident, reducing the likelihood of injury to the driver. The bottom line is this - in a frontal impact, the engine can move back and push the steering mechanism. If the column shaft were solid, changing the position of the mechanism would lead to the output of the shaft with the steering wheel into the passenger compartment. In the case of a composite column, the movement of the mechanism will be accompanied by only a change in the angle of one component of the shaft relative to the second, and the column itself remains motionless.
Steering gear
Designed to convert the rotation of the steering column shaft into translational movements of the drive elements.
The most widely used in passenger cars are mechanisms of the "gear-toothed rack" type. Previously, another type was used - the “worm-roller”, which is now mainly used on trucks. Another option for trucks is "screw".
"pinion-rack"
The spread type "gear-rack" received due to relatively simple device steering mechanism. This structural assembly consists of three main elements - a housing in which a gear is placed and a rack perpendicular to it. Between the last two elements there is a permanent gearing.
This type of mechanism works like this: the gear is rigidly connected to the steering column, so it rotates with the shaft. Due to the gear connection, the rotation is transmitted to the rail, which, under such an impact, is displaced inside the housing in one direction or another. If the driver turns wheel to the left, the interaction of the gear with the rack causes the latter to move to the right.
Often, gear-rack mechanisms with a fixed gear ratio are used on cars, that is, the range of rotation of the steering wheel to change the angle of the wheels is the same in all their positions. As an example, let's say it takes 1 full turn of the steering wheel to turn the wheels 15°. So, no matter what position the steered wheels are in (extreme, straight), to turn to the specified angle, you will have to make 1 turn.
But some automakers install mechanisms with a changing gear ratio on their cars. Moreover, this is achieved quite simply - by changing the angle of the position of the teeth on the rail in certain areas. The effect of this refinement of the mechanism is as follows: if the wheels are straight, then it takes 1 turn to change their position by the same 15 ° (example). But if they are in the extreme position, then due to the changed gear ratio, the wheels will turn to the specified angle after half a turn. As a result, the end-to-end steering range is significantly less than in a fixed ratio mechanism.
Rack with variable gear ratio
In addition to the simplicity of the device, the rack-and-pinion type is also used because in such a design it is possible to implement the actuators of the hydraulic booster (GUR) and electric booster (EUR), as well as electro-hydraulic (EGUR).
"worm-roller"
The next type, the "worm-roller", is less common and is now practically not used on passenger cars, although it can be found on VAZ cars of the classic family.
This mechanism is based on a worm gear. The worm is a screw with a special profile thread. This screw is located on the shaft connected to the steering column.
The thread of this worm is in contact with a roller connected to the shaft on which the bipod is mounted - a lever that interacts with the drive elements.
Worm gear
The essence of the mechanism is as follows: when the shaft rotates, the screw rotates, which leads to the longitudinal movement of the roller along its thread. And since the roller is mounted on the shaft, this displacement is accompanied by the rotation of the latter around its axis. This, in turn, leads to a semicircular movement of the bipod, which acts on the drive.
The “worm-roller” type mechanism on passenger cars was abandoned in favor of the “rack and pinion” due to the impossibility of integrating a hydraulic booster into it (it was still available on trucks, but the actuator was removed), as well as a rather complex drive design.
screw type
The design of the screw mechanism is even more complicated. It also has a threaded screw, but it does not contact the roller, but with a special nut, on the outer side of which there is a toothed sector that interacts with the same one, but made on the bipod shaft. There are also mechanisms with intermediate rollers between the nut and the gear sector. The principle of operation of such a mechanism is almost identical to the worm - as a result of the interaction, the shaft turns and pulls the bipod, and that, in turn, is the drive.
Screw steering gear
A hydraulic booster can be installed on the screw mechanism (the nut acts as a piston), but it is not used on passenger cars due to the massive structure, which is why it is used only on trucks.
Drive unit
The drive in the steering design is used to transfer the movement of the rack or bipod to the steered wheels. Moreover, the task of this component is to change the position of the wheels at different angles. This is due to the fact that the wheels move along different radii when turning. Therefore, the wheel inside when changing the trajectory of movement, it should turn by a larger angle than the outer one.
The design of the drive depends on the mechanism used. So, if a “rack-gear” is used on a car, then the drive consists of only two rods connected to the steering knuckle (the role of which is performed by the suspension strut) by means of a ball tip.
These rods can be attached to the rail in two ways. Less common is their rigid fixation by bolting (in some cases, the connection is made through a silent block). For such a connection, a longitudinal window has been made in the body of the mechanism.
A more common method of connecting rods is a rigid but movable connection to the ends of the rail. To ensure such a connection, a ball tip is made at the end of both rods. By means of a nut, this ball is pressed against the rail. When the latter moves, the rod changes its position, which provides the existing connection.
In drives where the "worm-roller" mechanism is used, the design is much more complicated and is a whole system of levers and rods, called the steering trapezoid. So, for example, on the VAZ-2101, the drive consists of two side rods, one middle one, a pendulum lever and knuckles with levers. At the same time, to ensure the possibility of changing the angle of the wheel position rounded fist attached to the suspension arms using two ball bearings (upper and lower).
A large number of components, as well as connections between them, makes this type of drive more prone to wear and play. This fact is another reason for abandoning the worm gear in favor of the rack and pinion.
"Feedback"
It is worth noting that in the steering mechanism there is also the so-called " Feedback". The driver not only acts on the wheels, but through it also receives information about the features of the movement of the wheels along the road. This manifests itself in the form of vibrations, jerks, the creation of definitely directed forces on the steering wheel. This information is considered very important for the correct assessment of the behavior of the car. Proof of this is the fact that in cars equipped with power steering and EUR, the designers retained the "feedback".
Advanced developments
This node continues to be improved, so the latest achievements are the systems:
- Active (dynamic) steering. It allows you to change gear ratio mechanism depending on the vehicle speed. It also performs an additional function - adjusting the angle of the front wheels in corners and when braking on slippery roads.
- Adaptive steering (control by wire). This is the newest and most promising system. It does not have a direct connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, everything works due to sensors and actuators (servos). The system has not yet received wide distribution due to psychological and economic factors.
"rudder-by-wire" system
Conclusion
In general, the mechanism is a fairly reliable unit that does not require any maintenance. But at the same time, the operation of the steering of a car implies timely diagnostics to identify faults.
The design of this node consists of many elements with movable joints. And where there are such connections, over time, due to the wear of the contacting elements, backlashes appear in them, which can significantly affect the handling of the car.
The complexity of steering diagnostics depends on its design. So in nodes with a gear-rack mechanism, there are not so many connections that need to be checked: tips, gear engagement with a rack, steering column universal joints.
But with a worm gear, due to the complex design of the drive, there are much more diagnostic points.
Concerning repair work in the event of a malfunction of the assembly, then the tips are simply replaced in case of severe wear. In the steering mechanism, at the initial stage, the backlash can be removed by adjusting the gearing, and if this does not help, by reassembling the assembly using repair kits. The cardan shafts of the column, as well as the tips, are simply replaced.
AutoleekEach node and mechanism of the car is important in its own way. Perhaps there is no such system, without which the car could function normally. One of these systems is the steering mechanism. This is probably one of the most important parts of the car. Let's look at how this node is arranged, its purpose, structural elements. And also learn how to regulate and repair this system.
The principle of operation of rack and pinion tie rod
Rack and pinion steering
The rack and pinion steering mechanism is the most common type of mechanism installed on cars. The main elements of the steering gear are the gear and the steering rack. The gear is mounted on the steering wheel shaft and is in constant engagement with the steering (gear) rack.
Scheme rack and pinion steering
1 - plain bearing; 2 - high pressure cuffs; 3 - body of spools; 4 - pump; 5 - compensation tank; 6- Tie Rod; 7 - steering shaft; 8 - rail; 9 - compression seal; 10 - protective cover.
The operation of the rack and pinion steering mechanism is as follows. When the steering wheel is turned, the rack moves to the left or right. During the movement of the rack, the steering rods attached to it move and turn the steered wheels.
The rack and pinion steering mechanism is distinguished by its simple design and, as a result, high efficiency, and also has high rigidity. But this type of steering mechanism is sensitive to shock loads from road irregularities, prone to vibrations. Due to their design features rack and pinion steering used on front-wheel drive vehicles 
Worm gear
Worm gear diagramThis steering mechanism is one of the "obsolete" devices. They are equipped with almost all models of domestic "classics". The mechanism is used on vehicles with increased cross-country ability with dependent suspension of steered wheels, as well as in light trucks and buses.
Structurally, the device consists of the following elements:
- steering shaft
- worm-roller transmission
- crankcase
- steering arm
A pair of "worm-roller" is in constant engagement. The globoidal worm is the lower part of the steering shaft, and the roller is mounted on the bipod shaft. When the steering wheel rotates, the roller moves along the teeth of the worm, due to which the steering arm shaft also rotates. The result of this interaction is the transfer of translational movements to the drive and wheels.
The worm gear steering has the following advantages:
- the ability to turn the wheels at a greater angle
- shock absorption from road bumps
- transmission of great effort
- providing better machine maneuverability
The manufacture of the structure is quite complicated and expensive - this is its main disadvantage. Steering with such a mechanism consists of many connections, the periodic adjustment of which is simply necessary. Otherwise, damaged items will have to be replaced.
Steering column
Performs the transfer of rotational force that the driver creates to change direction. It consists of a steering wheel located in the passenger compartment (the driver acts on it by rotating it). It is rigidly planted on the column shaft. In the device of this part of the steering, a shaft is often used, divided into several parts, interconnected by cardan joints.
This design is not made just like that. Firstly, it allows you to change the angle of the steering wheel relative to the mechanism, to shift it in a certain direction, which is often necessary when assembling the components of a car. In addition, this design allows you to increase the comfort of the cabin - the driver can change the position of the steering wheel in terms of reach and tilt, providing the most comfortable position.
Secondly, the composite steering column tends to “break” in the event of an accident, reducing the likelihood of injury to the driver. The bottom line is this - in a frontal impact, the engine can move back and push the steering mechanism. If the column shaft were solid, changing the position of the mechanism would lead to the output of the shaft with the steering wheel into the passenger compartment. In the case of a composite column, the movement of the mechanism will be accompanied by only a change in the angle of one component of the shaft relative to the second, and the column itself remains motionless.
Screw steering gear
The screw steering mechanism combines the following structural elements: a screw on the steering wheel shaft; a nut that moves along the screw; a gear rack cut into a nut; toothed sector connected to the rail; steering arm located on the sector shaft.
A feature of the screw steering mechanism is the connection of the screw and nut with the help of balls, which achieves less friction and wear of the pair.
In principle, the operation of the screw steering mechanism is similar to the operation of the worm gear. Turning the steering wheel is accompanied by the rotation of the screw, which moves the nut put on it. In this case, the circulation of the balls occurs. Nut by means of a gear rack moves the gear sector and with it the steering arm.
The screw steering mechanism, in comparison with the worm gear, has a greater efficiency and implements greater efforts. This type of steering mechanism is installed on selected luxury cars, heavy trucks and buses.
Conclusion
In general, the mechanism is a fairly reliable unit that does not require any maintenance. But at the same time, the operation of the steering of a car implies timely diagnostics to identify faults.
The design of this node consists of many elements with movable joints. And where there are such connections, over time, due to the wear of the contacting elements, backlashes appear in them, which can significantly affect the handling of the car.
The complexity of steering diagnostics depends on its design. So in nodes with a gear-rack mechanism, there are not so many connections that need to be checked: tips, gear engagement with a rack, steering column universal joints.
But with a worm gear, due to the complex design of the drive, there are much more diagnostic points.
As for repair work in the event of a malfunction of the assembly, the tips are simply replaced in case of severe wear. In the steering mechanism, at the initial stage, the backlash can be removed by adjusting the gearing, and if this does not help, by reassembling the assembly using repair kits. The cardan shafts of the column, as well as the tips, are simply replaced.
The basis of the steering of any car is the steering mechanism. It is designed to convert the rotational movements of the steering wheel into reciprocating movements of the steering gear. In other words, this device turns the steering wheel turns into the necessary rod movements and the turn of the steered wheels. The main parameter of the mechanism is the gear ratio. And the device itself, in fact, is a gearbox, i.e. mechanical transmission.
Movement functions
steering rackThe main functions of the device are:
- conversion of effort from the steering wheel (steering wheel);
- transmission of the received force to the steering gear.
Types of steering mechanisms
The device of the steering mechanism differs depending on the method of converting torque. According to this parameter, worm and rack types of mechanisms are distinguished. There is also a screw type, the principle of operation of which is similar to a worm gear, but it has a greater efficiency and implements more effort.
Worm steering mechanism: device, principle of operation, advantages and disadvantages
This steering mechanism is one of the "obsolete" devices. They are equipped with almost all models of domestic "classics". The mechanism is used on vehicles with increased cross-country ability with dependent suspension of steered wheels, as well as in light trucks and buses.
Worm gear diagram Structurally, the device consists of the following elements:
- steering shaft;
- transmission "worm-roller";
- crankcase;
- steering knuckle.
A pair of "worm-roller" is in constant engagement. The globoidal worm is the lower part of the steering shaft, and the roller is mounted on the bipod shaft. When the steering wheel rotates, the roller moves along the teeth of the worm, due to which the steering arm shaft also rotates. The result of this interaction is the transfer of translational movements to the drive and wheels.
The worm gear steering has the following advantages:
- the ability to turn the wheels at a greater angle;
- shock absorption from road bumps;
- transfer of great effort;
- providing better maneuverability of the machine.
The manufacture of the structure is quite complicated and expensive - this is its main disadvantage. with such a mechanism consists of many connections, the periodic adjustment of which is simply necessary. Otherwise, damaged items will have to be replaced.
Rack and pinion steering mechanism: device, principle of operation, advantages and disadvantages
Rack and pinion mechanism The rack and pinion steering mechanism is considered more modern and convenient. Unlike the previous node, this device is applicable on vehicles with independent suspension steered wheels.
The rack and pinion steering mechanism includes the following elements:
- mechanism body;
- rack and pinion transmission.
The gear is mounted on the steering shaft and is in constant engagement with the rack. During the rotation of the steering wheel, the rack moves in a horizontal plane. As a result, the steering rods connected to it also move and set the steered wheels in motion.
The gear-rack mechanism is distinguished by its simple design and high efficiency. Its advantages also include:
- fewer hinges and rods;
- compactness and low price;
- reliability and simplicity of design.
On the other hand, this type of gearbox is sensitive to bumps from road bumps - any push from the wheels will be transmitted to the steering wheel.
screw gearbox
Screw gear device A feature of this mechanism is the connection with the help of balls of a screw and a nut. As a result, there is less friction and wear of the elements. The mechanism consists of the following elements:
- steering wheel shaft with screw
- screw nut
- gear rack, threaded on a nut
- toothed sector to which the rack is connected
- steering arm
Helical steering gear is used in buses, heavy trucks and some luxury cars.
Device adjustment
Steering gear adjustment is used to compensate for gaps in the worm-roller and pinion-rack mechanisms. During operation, play may appear in these mechanisms, which can lead to rapid wear of the elements. It is necessary to adjust the steering mechanism only in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer and at specialized service stations. Excessive "clamping" of the mechanism can lead to jamming when turning the steering wheel to the extreme positions, which is fraught with loss of control of the car with corresponding consequences.
The task of the steering mechanism is to change the direction of the car. In most cars, only the direction of the front wheels can be changed, but there are modern models that are controlled by changing the direction of all four wheels.
The steering system consists of a steering device and a drive. Turning the steering wheel causes the engine to move forward. The steerable wheels then turn and the vehicle changes direction.
During this process, the initial movement of the driver is amplified several times. The steering device diagram shows which parts and mechanisms are involved in the process of driving a car. for modern cars and trucks, designed to transport large loads, hydraulic boosters are additionally installed. Hydraulic boosters make driving easier and increase traffic safety.
Steering device
Worm type steering gear
This is the oldest type of steering. The system consists of a crankcase with an integrated screw, called the "worm". The "worm" is directly connected to the steering shaft. In addition to the screw, the system has another shaft with a sector roller. The rotation of the steering wheel leads to the rotation of the "worm" and the subsequent rotation of the roller-sector. A steering arm is attached to the roller-sector, connected by means of a hinged control with a system of rods.
As a result of this linkage system, the steered wheels turn and the vehicle changes direction. The worm type steering mechanism has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, this is a large loss of energy due to high friction inside the mechanism. Secondly, there is no rigid connection between the wheels and the steering wheel. Thirdly, in order to change the direction of movement, you need to turn the steering wheel several times, which not only looks outdated, but also does not meet the standards of control existing in the world. Currently, worm-type devices are used only in Russian UAZs, vase with rear wheel drive and GAZakh.
Screw type steering gear
The screw mechanism is also called the "screw-ball nut". In developing this system, the designers replaced the "worm" with a special screw with a ball nut attached to it. On the outer side of the nut there are teeth, which come into contact with the same sector roller as in the previous system.
In order to reduce friction, the developers proposed to place ball channels between the sector roller and the nut. Thanks to this solution, it was possible to significantly reduce friction, increase returns and facilitate control. However, the presence of the same complex system of rods, big sizes and the inconvenient shape of the screw mechanism led to the fact that the screw system was also recognized as unsuitable for modern conditions. However, some well-known car manufacturers still use the "screw-ball nut" mechanism in the manufacture of machines with a longitudinal engine. Such mechanisms are nissan cars patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero and others.
Rack and pinion steering
- tie rod end;
- tip ball joint;
- rotary lever;
- lock-nut;
- thrust;
- bolts for fastening the steering rods to the rail;
- inner tie rod ends;
- steering gear bracket;
- steering gear support;
- protective case;
- connecting plate;
- locking plate;
- damping ring;
- rail support sleeve;
- rail;
- steering gear housing;
- coupling pinch bolt;
- lower flange of the flexible coupling;
- upper part of the facing casing;
- damper;
- wheel;
- ball bearing;
- steering shaft;
- the lower part of the facing casing;
- steering shaft mounting bracket;
- protective cap;
- roller bearing;
- drive gear;
- ball bearing;
- retaining ring;
- protective washer;
- sealing ring;
- bearing nut;
- anther;
- stop sealing ring;
- stop ring nut;
- rail emphasis;
- spring;
- stop nut;
- ball joint pin;
- protective cap;
- ball pin insert;
A. label on the boot;
B. mark on the crankcase of the steering mechanism;
C. ball joint surface;
D. Swing arm surface
The rack and pinion design is the most common steering device. The strength of this design lies in its simplicity. This simple and progressive mechanism is used in the production of 90% of cars. At the heart of the steering rack device is the main element - the shaft rack. The shaft rail is equipped with transverse teeth. On the steering shaft is a gear that engages with the teeth of the steering shaft and moves the rack.
Thanks to the use of this system, it was possible to minimize the number of articulated joints and significantly save energy. Each wheel "relies" on two hinges and one rod. For comparison: in the "screw-ball nut" system, the wheel corresponds to three rods, in the "worm" mechanism - five rods. The steering rack provided an almost direct connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, which means it increased the ease of driving several times. Such steering gear The car made it possible to change the direction of movement with a minimum number of turns of the steering wheel.
Another advantage of the rack design is the size and shape of the crankcase. With its small size and oblong shape, the crankcase can fit anywhere in the car. Automakers place the crankcase above the engine, under the engine, in front or behind, based on the car model. The rack and pinion mechanism made it possible to achieve an almost instantaneous reaction of the wheels to the steering wheel. This system made it possible to create high-speed cars with a modern, improved control system.
Amplifier
The amplifier is used to facilitate control. Thanks to the amplifier, it is possible to achieve greater control accuracy, increase the speed of transmission of movement from the steering wheel to the wheel. The car with the amplifier is controlled easier, easier, faster. The booster can be electric, pneumatic or hydraulic. Most modern cars a hydraulic booster powered by an electric motor is used.
The hydraulic booster consists of a rotary valve and a vane pump. Due to the movement of the vane pump, hydraulic energy is supplied to the steering mechanism. The pump runs on electric motor car. He moves hydraulic fluid. The pressure is regulated by a safety valve built into the pump. It is easy to guess that the greater the speed of the engine, the greater the amount of fluid entering the pumping mechanism.
New technologies
Recently, automakers have begun to produce models with an electric amplifier. These vehicles are driven on-board computer", that is electronic system working in automatic mode. Most of all, this system resembles a computer game, in which special sensors installed on the steering wheel provide information about all changes to the central computer and change the position of the mechanisms.
Weak links in steering
Like any other mechanism, the steering breaks down from time to time. An experienced driver listens to his car and can determine the presence of a particular malfunction by characteristic sounds.
For example, knocking or increased play in the steering wheel may indicate that the steering gear is loose in the crankcase, swing arm bracket, or steering arm. It could also be a sign that the tie rod joints, transmission pair, or swingarm bushing have become unusable. These malfunctions can be eliminated with the help of simple manipulations: replacing worn parts, adjusting gears or fasteners.
In the event that excessive resistance is felt during the rotation of the steering wheel, it can be said that the ratio of the front wheel alignment angles or the engagement of the transmission pair has been violated. Also, the steering wheel can move tightly in the absence of lubrication in the crankcase. These shortcomings should be eliminated: add lubricant, balance the installation angles, adjust the engagement.
Prevention
In order for the car steering device to serve for a long time, it is necessary to pay attention to its prevention. A thorough check of the parts and steering mechanisms can save you from breakdowns that require long and expensive repairs. In addition to prevention, driving style is of great importance.
Malfunctions can be prevented by timely Maintenance, which includes diagnostics of the state of the steering mechanism and other important parts and elements of the car.
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Each node and mechanism of the car is important in its own way. Perhaps there is no such system, without which the car could function normally. One such system is the steering mechanism. This is probably one of the most important parts of the car. Let's look at how this node is arranged, its purpose, structural elements. And also learn how to regulate and repair this system.
Typical technical solutions
Rack type control is one of the most popular types of control systems. Most modern passenger cars are equipped with such a mechanism today. The steering mechanism consists of a gear and a steering rack. The steering wheel is fixed on the shaft. The gear is also fixed on the same shaft. She is always in constant engagement with the steering rack. To do this, teeth are made on the rail.
The principle of operation of rack and pinion tie rod
The driver turns the steering wheel in the desired direction. At the same time, the gear rotates, and the rack moves with it. Steering rods are attached to the rack, which move the wheels.
Among the advantages of such a system, one can single out the simplicity of design, a high coefficient useful action. But the rack and pinion steering is very fond of careful driving.
Worm drive
Here, a globoidal worm stands out in the design. It connects to the steering shaft. The design also includes a special roller. This roller has a bipod that is not in the system case. The bipod moves the tie rods.
When the driver turns the steering wheel, the worm also works, and the roller works on it. The last to change the position of the bipod and rods on the wheels.
This drive is often found in classic models of the Soviet automobile industry. But, this design is sometimes found on SUVs and trucks. In trucks, it works just perfect. This is how the steering mechanism of UAZ, Classic cars and many other models and brands of the domestic auto industry is arranged.
screw gearbox
This mechanism is mounted in a sealed case. The design includes a screw on the steering shaft, a nut, and a gear rack. The nut can move along the shaft, and this very rail is cut on it. Such designs were used on some VAZ models, and the KamAZ steering mechanism works on the same principle, but with a hydraulic booster.
How does a screw gearbox work?
Here the work is like a worm. When the steering wheel is turned, the nut moves and displaces the gear sectors and bipod. The bipod pulls or pushes traction.
Steering gear VAZ
On the classic models of these cars, a steering gear is used. On more modern models, a rack and pinion mechanism is used. Using the VAZ-2105 as an example, let's look at the design of the mechanism, and also consider the implementation of rack and pinion control from AvtoVAZ engineers.
The steering system is simple and well thought out. Among the most interesting knots is the trapezium. It, in turn, itself consists of a large number of different levers and traction mechanisms.
Most car enthusiasts consider the steering column not too powerful, but this is not so. This steering wheel reliably withstands all tests. She can handle even the most extreme road conditions.
The device of the VAZ-2105 steering mechanism is not as archaic as it might seem at first glance. The column is equipped with a special plate that, in the event of an accident, literally folds the steering shaft, and the wheel will not cause injury to the driver. The worm gear, gearbox and levers greatly increase the driver's effort. It doesn't take much effort to turn. But for driving "classics" force is still needed.
In details
Inside the steering housing in the VAZ-2105, a cardan gear is hidden, which goes to the gearbox. In order to connect the cardan shaft, a cross is used. The whole structure is quite reliable and it lasts a very long time. All knots and details are made from high-quality steel alloys. That's why there are so few accidents with steering problems.
One of the most complex parts in a steering wheel is the gearbox. It works on the principle of a worm gear. The worm is known for its gaps and rapid wear. Therefore, the engineers prudently equipped the gearbox housing with an adjusting bolt. It regulates the gaps between the bipod and the worm. So, there are no gaps - there will be no beating in the wheels.
Unpretentious and reliable
Gearbox parts are placed in an oil bath. This significantly reduces wear. As a lubricant - ordinary transmission oil. The VAZ-2105 rods are fixed on special hinges, and are protected by anthers.
There is no need for constant lubrication and injection of mechanisms and components. It is only necessary to check the condition of the anthers from time to time. In order to disassemble the rods, you may need special tools, but they can be easily made in a garage if necessary.
Typical malfunctions
In the “classics”, steering malfunctions are characterized not only by loss of control, but also by backlash, as well as various knocks and extraneous sounds. Often a column knocks, or more precisely, one of the worn crosses. Previously, craftsmen pressed out the part and replaced it. Today they don't do that anymore. Heard the sound complete replacement along with cardan.
If the steering mechanism knocks in several places, then it is also necessary to replace the entire control, including the gearbox. If damage to the anthers is detected, then they just need to be replaced with new ones. Some owners of these cars do not service these mechanisms for many years, but only control the condition of the fingers from time to time.
Among the more serious breakdowns is the deformation of rods or levers. This happens with careless driving at high speeds. Sometimes it is difficult to figure out whether to change the steering or not to change. Damaged traction is sometimes quite difficult to replace. Repair of the steering mechanism is reduced to the replacement of damaged parts.
If a crunch is heard when turning, then it is necessary to look for a damaged bearing. He can be anywhere. Replacement is considered a complex procedure, disassemble steering column pretty hard. And if the gearbox can be replaced with your own hands, then it is better to repair the steering by specialists.
Worm gear setting
Even careful adjustment will not overcome the problem of "yaw" on the road. First, you need to adjust the gearbox. This operation can be quite difficult for beginners.
To perform the adjustment, you need a flat area. Then, using a puller, remove the fingers and bipod. Further, everything is much simpler - you need to swing the bipod, hold the steering wheel and catch the gap in the gearbox gear. If play is observed, then unscrew the nut, screw in the adjustment screw and tighten the nut.
It is important to do everything very carefully, because there is a risk of breaking the threads on the screw. Yes, and so the management will be very tight. Force can be controlled when the bipod is in position and the fingers are in place. You can check the force with a torque wrench. It should be 25 kgf.
In some cases, adjustments do nothing. If wear is observed, then in this case only the replacement of the gearbox will help.
VAZ rack and pinion control
The rail is attached to the engine compartment. The system is made in a cast aluminum crankcase. The crankcase has a drive gear. To limit the axial movement of the shaft, a special bearing is used. The inner race of the bearing is held in place by a circlip. All nodes are covered with anthers.
The rack is pressed against the gear teeth with the help of a special spring, but not directly, but through a cermet stop. The rail has marks for adjustments. The spring is also pressed by an adjustment nut with a retaining ring.
Adjustment of the rack and pinion steering mechanism on the VAZ
The gap between the rack and the gear can be adjusted only by completely disassembling the mechanism. Also adjust the rail if extraneous sounds are observed.
To adjust the gap, you must first install the rail stop with a seal until the rail touches, and then you need to insert the retaining ring, then the spring, and then assemble it all. The nut is tightened with a torque of not more than 1.37 kgf. In this case, the gap must be set in the region of 0.12 mm, and the allowable size is 0.2 mm.
After assembly, check the ease of operation of the steering wheel, the absence of various extraneous sounds.
How is the steering on GAZ arranged?
The GAZ steering mechanism is assembled in an aluminum housing. The working elements are a screw and a ball nut. The design also includes a shaft-sector. The screw is mounted on two angular contact bearings. A ball nut with a groove inside is mounted on the screw. There are balls between the screw and the nut. The splines of the shaft-sector are conical in shape, and a bipod is installed on them. Also in the design there are steering rods, fist levers, articulated rods.
Adjust the steering if the steering wheel has free play. To adjust the gaps, it is advisable to completely remove the mechanism. Next, you need to remove the plastic protective cover and seal. Next, use a 13 key to unscrew the cover bolts. The cover can be easily removed. The adjustment pad is also removed.
Then put the cover back on and screw it on. After checking the backlash, you can proceed to adjust the gap between the nut and the shaft. To do this, a bipod is installed on the shaft and, by rotating the adjustment screw, the bipod is set in the middle position. Then it remains to shake the shaft, holding it by the bipod. There shouldn't be a move. If there is still a move, then the plastic cover is removed again, the plug is removed, the retaining rings are removed, the holes on the edge of the shaft bearing ring are straightened with a thin tool with a blunt end. Now, using a special key, you need to turn the eccentric bearing rings clockwise.
Steering gear maintenance
Every day, sitting behind the wheel, it is advisable to check the free play of the steering wheel. After 2-3 thousand kilometers and beyond, for domestic cars- after 10 thousand, it should be carried out full check the state of the mechanism. During the check, the mechanisms and drives are cleaned of dirt.
In the presence of knocks, squeaks, beats of the wheels or steering wheel, it is desirable to replace the steering mechanism. For example, repairing a gearbox is a rather complicated process, and installing a new one solves all problems. The same happens with the rack mechanism.
So, we found out how the steering mechanism of a car works, how to adjust it and replace it with our own hands.