The steering column in a car, sometimes known as the steering shaft, is an important piece of a car that allows the vehicle to turn. The steering shaft connects the steering wheel with the rest of the components that turn the wheels. There are several different types of steering in cars, each that uses the steering column in a unique way. The steering column's purpose is to convert power, known as torque, into power to turn the wheels.
In cars with rack-and-pinion steering, the steering wheel is connected to the rack by way of the steering column. The rack is connected to the wheels, and has grooves in it. At the end of the steering column is a pinion which fits into the grooves of the rack. When the driver turns the wheel, the steering column twists the pinion which moves along the grooves and pulls the rack to one side, turning the wheels.
In recirculating ball steering, the steering column connects the steering wheel to the recirculating ball gearbox. The end of the steering column is made like a screw, and turns inside the gearbox. Ball bearings inside the gearbox help it to turn more smoothly, and as it turns it rotates another piece known as the pitman arm. This arm in turn rotates from the force of the steering column to cause the wheels to turn. The ball bearings that allow the steering column to turn more smoothly help the car to turn using less force, making it easier on the driver.
The third popular steering system is the power steering system. This system allows the driver to turn the car with the least amount of resistance. In this system, the steering column connects the steering wheel to the rotary valve. The rotary valve is responsible for telling the pump whether the car is turning or not. When the car is not turning, the power steering does not need to be engaged. When the steering column starts to turn, the rotary valve engages the power steering pump. This applies pressure to help turn the wheels. No matter what system a vehicle uses, the steering column is an essential piece in making it work. Without it, the steering wheel could not be turned, and the wheels would not be engaged.
