12-214610-01
1. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
The power steering has been designed to make the wheel move more easily than in a manual steering
system. The hydraulic power assists the process utilizing hydraulic fluid. The fluid increases pressure in
the power steering pump and aids the movement of the steering mechanism. The power steering
system consists of pump, oil reservoir, rack and gear box. The power steering pump is a vane type and
delivers hydraulic pressure to operate the power steering system. The pressure relief valve in the pump
controls the discharging pressure. The rotary valve in the rack and the pinion gear directs the oil from the
power steering pump to one side of the rack piston. The integrated rack piston converts the hydraulic
pressure to linear movement. The operating force of the rack moves the wheels through the tie rod, the
tie rod end and the steering knuckle. Even though the hydraulic pressure cannot be generated, a driver
can steer the vehicle without power assist but it needs very high steering force. In this case, the
operating force of the steering wheel is conveyed to the pinion, and the movement of the pinion moves
the rack through the pinion gear combined to the rack gear.
