Meineke can "steer" you in the right direction when it comes to fixing power steering or suspension systems. We provide complete steering and suspension systems service!
- Front End Parts
- Shocks and Struts
- Strut Mounts
- Coil and Leaf Springs
- Steering Stabilizers
- Rack and Pinion
- Motor Mounts
- Wheel Alignment; Wheel Balancing & Tire Rotation (please visit our Wheel & Alignment page for details on alignment, tire & wheel services)
The steering and suspension systems of a car are not only important for safety reasons but also enhances the comfort level of the vehicle. The two systems are directly related to each other, which is why they are always referred to together.
First lets look at the steering system. There are two basic types, standard mechanical steering and rack & pinion steering. The standard mechanical steering can be either power assisted or non-power. Rack & pinion is almost always power assisted although there are rare cases where it is not.
Standard mechanical steering uses a series of links and arms to insure both wheels turn in the same direction at the same time. It hasn't changed much in all the years it's been used and is quite simple.
Basically this is how it works; the steering wheel is connected to the steering box through the steering column. The steering box turns the rotation of the steering wheel 90° and, in the case of power steering, uses high-pressure fluid to help actuate the steering.
The steering box has an arm attached to the output shaft called the pitman arm. This connects the steering box to the steering gear. The pitman arm is connected to one end of the center or drag link. In the other end of the center link is an idler arm. Between the idler and pitman arms, the center link is supported in the proper position to keep the left and right wheels working together.
The inner tie rod ends are attached to either end of the center link and provides pivot points for the steering gear. From there it goes to the outer tie rod ends through an adjustment sleeve. This sleeve joins the inner and outer tie rod ends together and allows for adjustment when the front wheels are aligned. The outer tie rod ends are connected to the steering knuckle that actually turns the front wheels. The steering knuckle has an upper and lower ball joint that it pivots on and creates the geometry of the steering axis.
Shocks & Struts
Meineke of Humble offers comprehensive shock and strut replacement and suspension service. We do strut sssembly, cartridge & mount and standard, premium & truck/SUV Shocks.
Knowing when your shocks and struts need replacement isn't something that comes to the average car owner without exerting some effort. Shocks and struts are critically-important suspension components. They not only absorb road shocks and improve the quality of your ride, they also keep your tires in contact with the road.
Moreover, these critical suspension parts play a major role in braking performance and vehicle steering.
Some engineers recommend they be replaced every 50,000 miles. Of course, that's an average. The recommended change interval could be greater or less, depending on the driver, the type of vehicle, and road conditions.
If your vehicle is approaching the 50,000-mile mark, bring it in for a free suspension checkup. If it is necessary to replace your shock absorbers or struts, we will install quality brands that come with a full manufacturer's warranty.
Springs
A suspension component that supports the weight of the vehicle. Basic types include coil springs, leaf springs, air springs and torsion bars. Spring height affects ride height, which in turn affect wheel alignment. Weak or sagging springs should be replaced in pairs to restore and maintain proper ride height and wheel alignment.
Rack and Pinion
Rack and pinion steering is somewhat different. Basically it combines the steering box and center link into one unit. The steering wheel, through the steering column, is directly connected to the rack. Inside the rack is a pinion assembly that moves a toothed piston to move the steering gear. One end of the inner tie rod ends is connected to either end of this piston and the other end is connected to directly to the outer tie rod end. The inner tie rod end is actually threaded into the outer tie rod end and can be rotated to make adjustments during a wheel alignment.
The advantage of rack and pinion steering is that it is more precise than the mechanical system. By reducing the number of parts and pivot points, it can more accurately control wheel direction and is more responsive. The down side of a rack and pinion steering system is that they are prone to leakage requiring replacement of the rack assembly.
The bottom of the steering knuckle still pivots on a lower ball joint, but the top of the knuckle is connected to the strut. In this system the outer tie rod end is connected to an arm on the strut housing itself.
Motor Mounts
Motor mounts (engine mounts) are used to connect a car engine to the car frame. They are usually made of rubber and metal. The metal portion connects to the engine on one side and to the frame on the other. The rubber is in-between to provide some flexibility (so engine shake doesn't cause the car to shake). Newer cars may use slightly different mounts, however, there purpose is the same. Provide the connection from the engine to the car frame. The number of motor mounts varies from car to car.
Steering Stabilizer
Steering stabilizers are basically a shock absorber for your steering system. They are highly recommended for all vehicles with over-sized tires, a winch or anything that may cause an increase control and handling. Stabilizers dampen out wheel shimmy and help prevent the steering wheel from being jerked out of your hands in rough terrain or when a road hazard is struck by the front wheels. A steering stabilizer is a proven safety device in the event of a blow out. Steering stabilizers are engineered to restrain "bump steer" and front end vibration, giving added life to tires, ball joints and other steering components. A lot of vehicles now come from the factory with a steering stabilizer.
