Every
automobile has its own steering system based on certain mechanism. The
steering mechanism starts when the force is exerted on the steering wheel.
The whole steering system consist of following components- Pinion gear,
rack, tie Rod, spindle, rack and pinion unit and tire. The force so exerted
on the steering wheel is transferred to the the pinion gear and then to the
rack. The rack contains the tie rod which pushes or pulls the spindle to
make the wheels turn.
The most important part of the steering mechanism is however is the shock
absorber and the suspension system. The purpose of the steering shock
absorber and the suspension system is to provide a smooth ride in different
terrain including the rough terrain.
The suspension system used in the automobile are generally of two types:
- Strut suspension
- Conventional suspension
The steering shock absorber is attached to the vehicles (car's) frame near
each wheel on most cars or vehicle with conventional suspension systems.
Shock absorbers can be housed either inside the coil spring or they are
mounted beside them. When the car strikes the bump or the jerk, the spring
immediately gets contract. The piston and the thick fluid inside it keep the
spring from rebounding too quickly thereby making the ride smoother and
improves control and also reduce the tire wear.
The front wheel of most of the vehicles or the cars have some kind of Strut
Suspension which is an important type of shock absorber that reduces the
movement of the suspension. Some of the important components that takes part
in the steering mechanism are Coil Spring, Strut Assembly , Strut Suspension
System, Conventional Suspension System etc.
The flow of the fluid in the piston is controlled by spring-loaded valves.
Adaptability of shock absorber to the severity of the shock is excellent.
The slow movement of the axle results in the light resistance to the flow of
fluid. Wheras the stronger movement generates the stronger resistande
because the time required to force the fluid through the openings is more.
Due to these actions and consequent reactions, the steering shock absorbers
permit a soft ride over small bumps and provide firm control over spring
action for cushioning large bumps.
