styretøjets

Styretøjet, or the steering gear, is the assembly in a vehicle that converts the driver's input on the steering wheel into the turning of the wheels. Its main purpose is to provide directional control and stable handling. The core components are the steering column, the steering gearbox or rack-and-pinion, and the steering linkage that connects to the wheel hubs. In modern cars the common arrangement is a rack-and-pinion gearset; older or heavy vehicles may use a recirculating-ball gearbox. The steering ratio determines how far the steering wheel must be turned to produce a given wheel angle, influencing steering effort and feel. Vehicle alignment, including toe, camber, and caster, is adjusted through the linkage and suspension to ensure proper tracking and predictable response.

Power assistance is provided to reduce effort. Manual steering requires more effort at low speeds or when parking. Hydraulic power steering uses fluid pressure from a pump, while electric power steering (EPS) uses an electric motor controlled by a computer, often with variable assist. Some systems combine both or offer selectable modes. Advanced features include four-wheel steering, which can improve low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability, and steer-by-wire concepts that replace mechanical linkages with electronic control in some applications.

Maintenance and safety: regular inspection for play in the steering wheel, leaks in hydraulic lines, and wear in tie rods and joints is important. The steering pump, fluid level, and belt should be checked, and wheel alignment should be adjusted when signs of abnormal tire wear or wandering appear. A failure of the styretøjets system can lead to loss of directional control, requiring prompt attention.