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Virtually every motor vehicle that is manufactured nowadays has some form of power assisted steering system to make manoeuvring easier for the driver. The vast majority of power assisted steering systems operate using hydraulic pressure and utilise either a power steering box or a rack and pinion system.
An essential component in the operation of the hydraulic rack and pinion power steering system is the power steering rack. The power steering rack is made up of a rack, which is enclosed with a steering pinion. The power steering rack connects to the vehicle’s steering wheel. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the pinion moves and forces the steering rack to move either to the right or the left. The ends of the power steering rack are attached to the vehicle’s front wheels so the steering rack inputs and causes them to turn.
A power steering rack employs a pump, driven by the vehicle’s engine to supply hydraulic fluid, under pressure, to the steering rack when the wheel is turned. This makes the process of turning of the steering rack far easier.
If the power steering rack becomes worn it is prone to develop a leak. This will make steering difficult and marks the right to time to exchange the part for a new or re-conditioned alternative.