Steering Rack: Backlash and other malfunctions. How to eliminate or adjust?

Steering is an integral part of any car. Due to this node the vehicle can change the direction of the trajectory. The system consists of many elements. The main component is the steering rack. Lyuft it is unacceptable. About faults and signs of the failure of this mechanism - later in this article.

Characteristic

The steering performs several functions:

• Increases the effort that is attached to the steering wheel.
• Transmits the torque to the wheels through the drive.
• Produces independent return of the helm to a neutral position.

The main component of this mechanism is the reducer. It has its own gear ratio (for each car this parameter is different). At present, the rack and pinion steering is used . Previously, manufacturers used a worm and screw assembly. Why is rake so popular? This mechanism is distinguished by a simple device and high efficiency. Due to the design features, it can be installed on cars with front and rear drive, as well as on cars with independent suspension.

Symptoms of a malfunction

How to determine that the steering rack has failed ? Luft is not the only sign. So, when turning the rudder, the driver applies more effort than required. Of course, there are some nuances here (because they distinguish between drives with and without an amplifier). So, on the steering with a hydraulic drive you will notice the characteristic hum of the pump. Sometimes this is accompanied by leakage of working fluid from the reservoir. As for mechanical drives, the sound of rotation will remain the same. However, the steering wheel will become noticeably tighter. This is the first sign that the steering rack has failed. The play when rotating the wheels can occur on both types of drive - mechanical and hydraulic. Another reason is the leakage of the stuffing box. In this case, the node will show characteristic streaks, as in the photo below. This indicates that the drive mechanism has become unusable. The problem is solved by installing a new oil seal / anther or by replacing the assembly.

Why is there a backlash?

In most cases, this problem is related to the condition of the pavement. After all, each irregularity assumes not only the suspension, but also the steering mechanism. So, with frequent driving through pits, the backlash of the steering rack shaft is observed. Much depends on the style of driving. To maximally save the rail, you need to brake off well in front of the pits. But this does not guarantee that soon there will be no backlash. Riding through recumbent policemen, concrete joints and other irregularities simply crash the rail. The load on the gearbox increases tens of times. After 10-15 years on the car there are problems with the steering. By the way, upon reaching this period, foreign automakers recommend changing the rail. But the problem is that it's very difficult to find a new detail on such an old car. And repair kits do not always save. How to eliminate backlash in the steering rack? One of the correct methods is the so-called pull-up of the steering gear. Of course, the resource of the reducer does not increase from this. However, for a while you can forget about the constant pulling of the steering wheel and ride in comfort.

What is the norm

Manufacturers laid the standard, in which the pull of the steering rack is normal. So, this figure is not more than ten degrees. You can measure this on SRT, with the help of a backlash. This tool is presented in the photo below. The device is mounted on the steering wheel and on the wheels. When they rotate, a free play is determined. If it is above the norm (that is, more than ten degrees), adjustment of the play of the steering rack is required. This operation, unlike measurements, can be done by one's own hands. Below we will consider how to do this.

How is the steering rack pulled up?

Loft, which is higher than normal, can be reduced by adjusting the gear mechanism. To do this, tighten the corresponding screw. It is in the end cover of the rack. For convenience, use a pit or trestle. In extreme cases, you can use a jack (in any case, we need access to the rail on the bottom of the car). So, we expose the front wheels exactly and proceed to a suspender. Pre-make a mark and remove the lock nut. The key is 18 on the steering rack. Loft should gradually decrease. It is important not to make sudden movements. First, tighten the bolt 15-20 degrees. Check the reaction of the helm. If the result is not satisfied, repeat the procedure again. Ideally, after tightening, you need to make a test run. The knock of the reiki should be lost, and when turning, the steering wheel should easily return to its place.

Underwater rocks

What problems can a motorist face when performing operations to suspend the steering gear? The first is the angle of rotation. The stronger the rack is tightened, the less the degree of rotation of the front wheels. Accordingly, the maneuverability of the car decreases. The second point is the effort exerted on the rotation of the rudder. The harder the nut turns, the tighter the steering wheel. Especially it is noticeable on cars with a mechanical drive type (these are domestic "tens", "simulators" and foreign cars of the early 90s). As for machines with a hydraulic booster, the load here increases on the pump. Inside the system, the fluid pressure will increase. The hose or cuff may flow. If you feel that the steering wheel has become very tight and weakly returns to a neutral position, you must loosen the nut. Ride on a tightly tightened rail is not recommended. This will entail the wear of a number of other elements.

Is it effective?

The statistics says that tightening the steering rack reducer really helps to remove backlash. However, in 20 percent of cases the problem is not solved. First of all, this is due to the large wear of the transmission couple itself. This is a rack and pinions. Also, the reasons for backlash may consist in the wear of the steering link hinges or in the weakened fastening of the steering bipod. Therefore, it is not always possible to set the reiki efficiently. So, in the presence of such symptoms experts recommend checking the condition of the front suspension assemblies. There should be no backlash on the steering rods, ball joint and suspension arms. At the same time, it is recommended to check the shock absorber. Its stock should go well. On the McPherson suspension, its replacement is complicated by the fact that the element is assembled with a spring. For its dismantling a special press is used.

Conclusion

So, we figured out how to remove the backlash in the steering rack, why it arises and what are the pitfalls of adjustment. This mechanism directly affects traffic safety. Therefore, in the event of a malfunction, repair or adjustment of the steering rack should not be postponed.