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Services >> Steering System
Steering System
What It Does
The transmission system transfers power from the engine to the rear drive wheels.
Front-wheel-drive vehicles are equipped with a "transaxle") a combination transmission/differential) that transfers power from the engine to the front wheel drive wheels.
Did You Know?
Steering System
Components |
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Have your ever wondered why it's so difficult shifting an automatic transmission out of PARK on a steep grade? It's because in the PARK position, the transmission locks the driving wheels and the transmission resists the vehicle's tendency to roll.
To prevent being jammed in PARK while on a grade, use the following procedures as suggested by the Car Care Council:
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Before putting the vehicle in PARK, with the foot brake still applied, secure the parking (emergency) brake |
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Before shifting the transmission from PARK, apply the foot brake and move the shift level to NEUTRAL or DRIVE, then release the emergency brake. |
These simple procedures will not only save wear on your transmission, but on your arm as well!
1
Power Steering Fluid Reservoir and Pump
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Function:
The reservoir holds the power steering fluid while the pump delivers the fluid to the system's gear valve assembly in order to reduce steering effort..
Signs of Wear:
Pump: Difficult low-speed steering, whining noise when turning the steering wheel, steering wheel shake or shimmy, pump housing leakage.
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2
Rack-and-Pinion Steering Assembly
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Function:
A long, steel bar that is meshed with the pinion gear and connected to the rods that turn the front wheels.
Signs of Wear:
Excessive "play" in steering wheel, steering wheel vibration or shaking, unusual noises.
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3
Pitman Arm
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Function:
Connects the steering gear and steering linkage.
Signs of Wear:
Wandering and excessive steering with little directional change.
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4
Tie Rod End
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Function:
Transfers motion from the steering linkage to the wheel hub assembly.
Signs of Wear:
Rough or stuttered steering, play in steering wheel, inner or outer tire-edge wear (see graphic "D" in Ride and Handling System section.)
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5
Drag Link/Center Link
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Function:
Controls left and right linkage movement which changes wheel direction.
Signs of Wear:
Excessive steering motion with little directional change.
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6
Idler Arm
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Function:
Serves as a pivot point to the steering linage assembly.
Signs of Wear:
Irregular tire wear, such as feathering or scrubbing (see graphic "A" in Ride and Handling System section).
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7
Integral Steering Gear
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Function:
Uses a recirculating ball gearbox along with a pitman arm to steer the vehicle to the left or right.
Signs of Wear:
"Sloppy" steering feel, reduced steering responsiveness.
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8
Power Steering Hose
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Function:
Carries pressurized flue from the power steering pump to the steering assembly in order to turn the wheels to the left or right.
Signs of Wear:
Worn or leaking hose, difficult steering.
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