Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Steering Gear - Power: Description
Steering gear is a recirculating ball-type, available in either a constant or a variable ratio design. Steel balls form a "rolling thread" between steering gear worm shaft and rack/piston nut. Worm shaft thrust is absorbed by a thrust bearing and two races at lower end, and by a bearing in adjuster plug at upper end.
This design puts spring pressure on worm shaft to ensure proper thrust bearing preload. Adjuster plug provides initial preload adjustment and service adjustment (when repairing gear). As worm shaft is turned right, rack/piston is moved upward in gear.
As worm shaft is turned left, rack/piston is moved downward in gear. The rack/piston teeth mesh with sector, which is forged as part of sector shaft. Rotating worm shaft moves sector shaft, which turns wheels through mechanical linkage. See Figure .
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.