Chapter 9 Steering Systems 175
steering stops are adjustable, but most are not. See
Figure 9-16. A few manufacturers locate the steering stops
on the pitman arm, Figure 9-17.
Ball Sockets
Since many parts of the steering linkage move in
relation to each other, it is necessary to have a flexible
connection between them. Ball sockets are used to make
this flexible connection. The internal parts of the ball
socket resemble those of a ball joint, Figure 9-18. The
bearing surfaces of the ball socket form a sliding surface for
the transfer of motion. To reduce wear and vibration, ball
sockets are preloaded (placed under tension). A small
spring or rubber ring is installed under one of the bearing
surfaces to create this tension.
Like ball joints, ball sockets are used to transfer loads
while rotating and moving both horizontally and vertically.
Unlike ball joints, ball sockets do not transfer vehicle
weight downward. Instead, they transfer steering effort
sideways. Therefore, the loads placed on a ball socket are
horizontal (side to side) rather than vertical (up and down).
Some ball sockets are self-contained units, such as the
assembly shown in Figure 9-19. The ball socket is attached
to the steering knuckle by a threaded and tapered stud. The
other end is a threaded section, which is installed into
matching threads in another part of the steering linkage.
The threaded section can have internal or external threads,
depending on the linkage design. Ball sockets used to
connect the steering linkage to the steering knuckle are
called tie rod ends.
Grease fitting
Nut
Steering
arm
Axle
housing
Steering
knuckle
Bolt
Figure 9-14. This steering arm is bolted to the steering knuckle.
(General Motors)
Steering
arm
Steering knuckle
Hub assembly
Figure 9-15. In this steering knuckle assembly, the steering arm
is an integral part of the knuckle. (Corvette)
Projection on
control arm
Contact
points
Movable
knuckle
Figure 9-16. This vehicle has nonadjustable steering stops on both the steering knuckle and the control arm. (General Motors)