Trucking: Steering mechanism on CDL Pre Trip inspection, steering mechanism, air brakes

Question
I live in Baton Rouge, La.

I want to get a class B CDL and I have passed the written tests for general knowledge and air brakes.

I'm fixing to go for my driving test. The manual states that while inspecting the front of the vehicle you must check the condition of the steering system and that you must "grab steering mechanism" to test for looseness.

What is the meaning of steering mechanism? I ask this because there are many parts of the steering system. What is it specifically?

Thanks
Cecil

Answer
Hi Cecil,  The steering mechanism would be all the connecting parts between the steering coluum and the front wheels.  I believe what is referred to here would be the connecting rod beween the front wheels.  This can also be check my moving the steering wheel for excess movement.
Hope this helps.  J P