Crucial Hydraulic Components of a Power Steering System
Back in the day, when power steering wheels were just a figment of imagination, steering a vehicle required a lot of effort. Therefore, drivers had to wrestle with a steering wheel to turn a car, and it was even worse in older vehicles. Fortunately, advancements in automotive technology have made steering an effortless task thanks to hydraulic systems. Notably, a power steering system comprises several parts, and it is advisable to familiarise yourself with them. Doing so gives you a better chance of recognising common problems that affect your car's power steering. This article explores different power steering system parts.
Pump
The pump is arguably the most essential part, and its primary function is to ensure that hydraulic fluid reaches a power steering system. A power steering pump features a slotted rotor that allows the hydraulic fluid to enter. Once inside, the rotor moves the hydraulic fluid to discharge ports and into a reservoir in the steering system. The action pressurises the hydraulic fluid and, in turn, enables the appropriate movement. Note that a power steering pump also consists of special pressure-relief valves that maintain the system's pressure at optimal levels. Thus, it prevents excessive force that could damage the rotor and other critical internal components.
Pump Pulley
A power steering wheel requires energy from a car engine to operate. However, there must be an intermediary between a motor and a steering system, which is the pump pulley. Depending on the model of your car, a pump pulley is connected to the engine's crankshaft via one or two belts. Therefore, when you turn on an engine, the crankshaft begins to rotate, and so does the pulley. In cars with two straps, the second one transfers the rotational force from the pulley to the power steering pump itself. It is important to note that a power steering wheel cannot turn without a pulley system. That said, the belts wear off over time and fail to transfer the rotational force effectively. The wear and tear make a power steering feel choppy or malfunction altogether. Therefore, motorists regularly inspect the pulley system belts and replace them accordingly.
Rotary Valve
When driving along a straight road, a power steering wheel remains idle, but it must instantly respond when you engage it to change lanes or take a turn. The instant reaction is made possible by a rotary valve, which monitors the wheel's position and senses the applied force. It then directs hydraulic fluid to a power steering system based on the direction of the turn. Notably, the rotary valve gets assistance from a torsion bar, which informs the valve about the direction and intensity of a turn.
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