Mechanical Power Steering System: Description
The power steering system consists of:
- Rack and pinion steering gear
- Power steering pump
- Fluid reservoir
- Interconnecting hydraulic lines
The power steering system uses a hydraulic pressure which is generated by the power steering pump to reduce the effort required to turn the steering wheel.
The power steering pump is mounted on the front of the engine. The pump has a vane-type design, and is driven by the crankshaft through a drive belt.
The power steering fluid is drawn into the pump from the reservoir when the engine is running. The fluid is pressurized by the rotation of the rotor and vanes, then sent to the steering gear. The fluid pressure is monitored and regulated by a Power Steering Pressure (PSP) switch and a control valve located in the power steering pump.