Fundamentals Of Steering Systems

Wheeled Vehicle Sytems Steering Systems
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STANDARDS

Answer 70 percent of the multiplechoice test items covering fundamentals of

steering systems.

REFERENCES

TM 98000

Learning Event 1:

DESCRIBE THE PRINCIPLES OF STEERING AND THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF

MECHANICAL STEERING GEARS AND LINKAGES

One of the most interesting features on a wheeled vehicle is the steering

system. The steering system consists of all the parts necessary to make the

front wheels turn in the direction we wish to go. These parts include a

steering wheel, a gearbox, and all linkages and levers needed to control the

front wheels.

Steering systems are carefully designed so that the driver can, without too

much effort, keep the vehicle going straight ahead or turn it to the right

or left. The driver must be able to easily overcome the tendency of the

front wheels to go to the right or left as a result of striking holes in the

road, rocks, stumps, or other obstructions. Obstructions try to stop the

wheel that strikes them, while the other front wheel tries to keep rolling,

which causes the vehicle to turn in the direction of the obstruction. This

is called road shock. Road shock tries to jerk the steering wheel out of

the driver's hands. Hitting obstructions makes it difficult to control the

vehicle, and steering systems are designed to reduce the shock caused by

striking obstructions.