System overview
- Hydraulic fluid reservoir
- Hydraulic pump
- Control valve
- Servo cylinder
The steering gear is of the rack-and-pinion type and comprises a control valve and a servo cylinder integrated in one housing. Together with the hydraulic pump and fluid reservoir, these are the main components of the system.
Hydraulic fluid is pumped from the hydraulic pump to the control valve where it is directed to either the right or the left side of the servo cylinder, depending on which way the steering wheel is turned. The hydraulic fluid in the servo cylinder acts on the rack piston, providing power assistance to the steering gear.
The mechanical components in the steering gear are lubricated with a high-viscosity grease and are separated from the hydraulic circuit and other surroundings by seals and bellows.