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Rack and Pinion Steering Components

Rack and pinion steering has a number of advantages over a steering box, including more precision and fewer moving parts. This makes the steering system more responsive, according to "Rod & Custom" magazine. For those looking to become gear heads, shopping around for parts or just curious what goes on inside their car, knowing the rack and pinion steering components is worthwhile.

Rack

The rack is the part of the steering system that everything else revolves around. This is a flat piece of metal with gear notches in it. Racks come in both manual and power types, meaning that you can do all the steering yourself or get assistance from a power steering system. The rack is connected to the wheels and provides the motion that causes your car to steer where you want it to.

Pinion

The pinion is a circular piece of metal with gear notches in it. These notches meet up with the notches in the rack, converting circular motion into linear motion to make steering easier. A piston moves the pinion, which is connected to the rest of the car with tie rods. The pinion is connected directly to the steering column.

Power Cylinder

Rack and pinion systems with power steering come equipped with additional components that traditional systems do not. The main component of the power steering system is the power cylinder that provides the "power" from which the system takes its name. A series of seals surrounds the cylinder to keep it isolated from the rest of the cars engine.

Bellows

The rack and pinion system is separated from the rest of the car by rubber bellows. There are two rubber bellows, one on either end of the mechanism. These keep the rack and pinion clean. They also keep the grease-based lubricant, necessary for proper operation of the system, intact in the system.

Tie Rods

The tie rods keep the rack and piston mechanism connected to the rest of your car. They also allow the mechanism to make the necessary moves relative to the rest of your car. A loose tie rod will result in a "loose" feeling to your steering.

Ball Joint and Socket

The ball joint and socket connect the tie rod to the rest of the steering mechanism. They also allow for minor changes in the suspension of your car that allows you to steer properly. Without this component of the rack and pinion system it would be impossible to make slight turns.