Getting To Know Your Steering System

How Steering Works In A Semi-Truck

Smooth steering is one of the most important aspects when it comes to driving a semi-truck. Without a properly functioning steering apparatus, you won't be able to control your truck the way that is most safe and comfortable for you. There are several components involved in making sure that you can steer your heavy-duty vehicle without the wheel locking up or shaking. Each of these components plays a role in determining how easily you can turn the steering wheel on such a heavy vehicle without any resistance. If you've been wanting to learn more about each of the components that makes up your steering system, then you've come to the right place. To help you along in your research, our team of trucking experts has put together the following article on each of the parts that make up your big rig's steering system.

Keep reading to learn more about the steering system in your semi-truck!

What Is A Steering System?

A steering system is designed to make sure your wheels react the way you expect them to when you turn the steering wheel. It is comprised of multiple components designed to make it as easy as possible to maneuver your vehicle. The steering system helps to reduce fatigue by amplifying the driver's efforts while compensating for the weight of the vehicle. When everything in the system is working properly, you won't have any issue turning the wheel and you truck will react exactly as you turn.

What Are The Components Of A Steering System?

Steering systems are made up of several components designed to make sure you can easily maneuver your commercial vehicle without issue including: steering gears, drag links, tie rods, steering pumps, and reservoir tanks.

Steering Gears: The steering gear system sits where the steering column and the steering links. The system is made up of several gears that convert rotary motion into lateral movement. The steering gear is also designed to improve mechanical advantage to make the movement stronger. The system changes the steering wheel's circular motion into a linear motion. It also helps to amplify the resulting movement in an effort to turn the heavy steering linkages and wheels without any resistance.

Drag Links: A drag link is a suspension linking part that is found in semi-trucks equipped with steering gear systems. Drag links are the component that attaches the steering gear to the tie rod ends. The first side of the drag link connects to the pitman arm, the other connects to a pivot point, and the ends connect to the tie rods. When the steering wheel is turned, the drag link moves the rotating motion from the gearbox to the wheels.

Tie Rods: In your semi-truck, the tie rods are designed to securely connect your steering gear to the steering knuckle. Tie rods attach to the steering rack and help push and pull the front tires while you are turning the steering wheel. There are inner and outer tie rod ends that connect to the steering knuckle and turn the front wheels.

Steering Pumps: Your heavy-duty truck's steering pump is driven by the engine through a belt and pulley system. The system features retractable vanes that spin inside an oval-shaped chamber. When the vanes spin, they pull hydraulic fluid from the return line at a low pressure. The fluid is then forced into the outlet at a high pressure.

Reservoir Tanks: The power steering reservoir is a container where the steering fluid from the power cylinder flows in and through, then back to the pump.

Different Types Of Power Steering Systems

The power steering system in your commercial truck limits the force it takes to turn the steering wheel while maintaining its steering ratio. There are three types of steering systems in use today, including hydraulic, hybrid, and electric.

Hydraulic Power Steering: A hydraulic power steering system uses compressed hydraulic fluid to amplify the driver's motions when turning the wheels. The hydraulic system uses a pump that is mechanically driven by the truck's engine.

Hybrid Power Steering: A hybrid power steering system takes advantage of hydraulic and electric power to move the steering system. It relies on a hydraulic pump driven by electric actuators in your truck's engine instead of mechanically.

Electric Power Steering: The electric power steering system is the most reliable of the three options. These systems use a series of electric sensors and motors to drive your truck's steering system.

Signs You Need to Replace Components In Your Steering System

Making sure that your semi-truck's steering system is in proper working order is one of the most important checks you can do when making regular inspections. Here are a few signs you can look for to determine whether you need to replace components in your steering system.

1. Steering wheel won't turn
2. Steering wheel is difficult to turn
3. Steering wheel locks entirely
4. Steering wheel oversteers
5. Steering wheel feels shaky

If you are experiencing any of these issues, you will want to make sure that you bring your rig into the shop to further diagnose what the specific problem may be.

Read More About The Steering System In Your Semi-Truck!

Now that you know a little more about your semi-truck's steering system, you'll may be interested in reading the rest of the articles we have on the topic. Take a look at any of the links below for more information on each of the components that make up your steering system.

• Get To Know Your Steering System: Steering Gears
• Get To Know Your Steering System: Tie Rods
• Get To Know Your Steering System: Drag Links
• Get To Know Your Steering System: Steering Pumps
• Get To Know Your Steering System: Reservoir Tanks

Shop Now For Savings On Steering Parts!

If you are looking for replacement parts for your steering system, then you've arrived at the perfect time! Whether you are looking for steering gears, drag links, tie rods, pumps, or reservoir tanks, we have a full selection of steering parts from Dana, Spicer, Match Made, and Meritor. Shop now for amazing deals on the aftermarket parts you need to make sure your commercial truck is up and running as intended!