Acquainting Yourself with The Inner Workings of Power Steering System Parts
Cars have come a long way over the decades. With evolving technology, vehicles are not only faster than they used to be, but they are also much more efficient and more convenient to use. One type of technology that has drastically enacted the handling of a vehicle is the power steering system. Rather than having to exert your entire upper body to turn your steering wheel in the direction that you want it to go, the power steering employs hydraulic power that diminishes the amount of energy required from you. Hence, handling is not only easy for veteran drivers but new motorists too.
Nevertheless, the introduction of intricate systems into cars means there are more components present that can succumb to decline. Thus, knowing the various components of the different systems helps with Identifying the affected auto part. So what is the power steering system made up of? Keep reading to acquaint yourself with the inner workings of the power steering system parts.
The pump
Undoubtedly one of the most well-known components in the power steering system, the power steering pump is tasked with pushing hydraulic fluid through this system. It accomplishes this task via a rotor. The rotor that is outfitted on the pump will spin and its movement draws the hydraulic fluid from its receptacle. The stronger this pull, the higher the pressure created in the fluid.
Once the pressure is at optimum, the pump will direct the pressurised fluid into the steering rack, where it is employed to achieve the motorist's desired movement. You should be aware of the fact that the pump is also designed with a valve that functions to mitigate the risk of excessive pressure. Hence, when the relief valve is defective, the pump generates too much pressure that will jeopardise the rotor. This issue will warrant power steering repairs.
The pulley
Your power steering's pump requires energy to function. This energy, as with most other systems in your vehicle, is drawn from the engine. The auto part that is tasked with channelling this energy from the engine to the pump is known as a pulley. When you look at the anatomy of a power steering system, you will see that the pump is connected to the crankshaft via the serpentine belt. Therefore, when the crankshaft is in motion, so is the serpentine belt that rotates the pulley too.
A secondary belt will then work to transfer the rotational energy that is created to the power steering pump. This complex operation requires the pulley and the belts to be in working condition or the power steering pump will be incapable of functioning. Considering that these belts and the pulley will succumb to wear over time, you should have them checked when you start to experience problems with the power steering system.