Steering Column Function, Important Component of the Car Steering System

Car steering system is designed as a system to control the car, especially to change the direction of the car's speed. This way, the car's wheels can turn according to the driver's wishes. The success of the steering system's function is inseparable from the role of its components, including the steering column. So what is the function of this component? To find out the complete function, let's pay attention to the following review.

Function of the Steering Column in the Car Steering System

The steering column is a component of the steering system that serves to transmit power from the steering wheel to the steering gear. In addition, the steering column also functions to reduce the rotational energy of the car's steering wheel when the car is hit or shaken during an accident.

Types of Steering Columns

After you know the function of the steering column, you also need to know its types. For more details, see the following explanation.

1. Collapsible steering column model

This type is usually found in cars for daily use, or cars for transporting passengers. In this type, the steering column can shorten and fall down when the car is hit or shaken during an accident. This happens because the steering column absorbs and reduces excessive energy. Thus, the driver can avoid the risk of serious injury during an accident.

2. Non-collapsible steering column model

Meanwhile, this type is the opposite of the previous type. This type of steering column is widely used in cargo vehicles such as pick-up trucks to trucks. This type of steering is designed not to fall or shorten when the car is shaken or hit during a collision.

How the Steering Column Works

In terms of operation, the steering column is divided into several working mechanisms. Here is the complete way the steering column works.

1. Telescopic steering mechanism

This mechanism allows the driver to adjust the steering wheel according to their body posture. The way is easy, the driver just needs to reset the length of the main shaft of the steering system, so the steering wheel becomes closer to the driver's body. This way, the safety and security of the driver while driving the car are more assured.

2. Tilt steering mechanism

This mechanism has the same goal as the previous mechanism, which is to enhance safety, security, and comfort when driving a car. However, in the tilt steering mechanism, the steering wheel can be adjusted vertically.

3. Collapsible steering mechanism

This mechanism is designed to protect the driver from the risk of serious injury that endangers life during an accident. The main shaft will shorten or collapse when the car is hit hard, in order to absorb energy that worsens the accident condition.

4. Steering lock mechanism

This mechanism is better known as the steering lock mechanism. This mechanism occurs when the driver pulls the car key. At this moment, the main shaft is locked by the column tube. Nowadays, this mechanism is still applied, but further developed into an electric system known as ELV (Electric Steering Lock).

5. Universal joint mechanism

The last mechanism is called the universal joint mechanism. This mechanism is designed to dampen the shock or vibration caused by uneven or pothole road surfaces. So, when the car drives on such uneven roads, the car will not shake, thus increasing comfort while driving.

Considering the important function of the steering column in the car steering system, it is advisable to always pay attention to the condition of this component. Don't forget to consult with an expert mechanic like a mechanic from Daihatsu workshop if this component and other steering system components have problems. Because a malfunctioning steering system is a major trigger for accidents.

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