It is actually a pretty simple mechanism.
Simple rack and pinion steering diagram.
The steering system converts the rotation of the steering wheel into a swivelling movement of the road wheels in such a way that the steering wheel rim turns a long way to move the road wheels a short way.
The rack and pinion steering box has a pinion connected to the steering column.
A typical rack and pinion steering layout showing how the rack acts directly on the road wheel steering arms.
A rack and pinion is commonly found in the steering mechanism of cars or other wheeled steered vehicles rack and pinion provides less mechanical advantage than other mechanisms such as recirculating ball but less backlash and greater feedback or steering feel the mechanism may be power assisted usually by hydraulic or electrical means.
The use of a variable rack still using a normal.
Working principle of rack and pinion steering gear.
Rack and pinion steering uses a gear set to convert the circular motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion required to turn the wheels.
Helical gearing gives smoother and quieter operation for the driver.
Rack and pinion steering is quickly becoming the most common type of steering on cars small trucks and suvs.
A rod called a tie rod connects to each end of the rack.
Both the pinion and the rack teeth are helical gears.
A rack and pinion gearset is enclosed in a metal tube with each end of the rack protruding from the tube.