As all fluids in an automobile, the oil from the power steering should be checked frequently. In this article we explain everything about it and how it can be changed.
Hydraulic power steering
The first four-wheeled vehicles had no power steering. The steering wheel connected directly to the steering axle that was connected to the wheels and directed them.
This is still the case, for example, in Formula 1, 2 and 3 cars and rally cars where driving accuracy is one of the keys to success.
Currently, the power steering consists in 5 pieces:
- Hydraulic pump;
- High and low pressure tubes.
- Oil reservoir.
- Pine nut;
- Rack.
When the driver makes a manoeuvre in a vehicle, a series of mechanisms are activated to do so without a lot of effort. Here comes precisely the importance of under pressure oil that significantly reduces the driver’s effort.
Steering Oil: What is the importance?
The vehicle’s power steering system works correctly thanks to the oil pressure inside the system. When the driver makes some movement on the steering wheel, the system kicks in.
The steering wheel has a valve that opens and closes when there are variations in the pressure on the steering wheel. When there is some movement on the steering wheel, this valve opens so that the oil can circulate (always under pressure) and activate the steering bar to the desired side
It is important to remember that heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, have more components in the power steering system, as mechanisms require more components to support the wight of it.
Another aspect that you should keep in mind is that the steering oil is not as economical as the electric steering system, but in contrast, it makes the car safer and more comfortable to drive.
Change the steering oil
Change the steering oil is quite simple and for this process are recommended the following tools that you can find in our catalog:
- Oil syringe;
- Jack;
To replace the oil used by a new one you should check the manufacturer recommendations
To change the oil you must follow these steps:
- Open the steering oil tank
- Remove as much oil as possible with the syringe;
- Lift the front wheels slightly with the hydraulic jack or with an lift;
- Turn the direction from side to side so that the fluid can easily be pumped out.
- remove the remaining oil present in the tank;
- Remove the tubes connected to the oil tank by draining them completely (optional);
- Place the new oil inside the tank and close it;
- Still with the car lifted, start the engine and turn the steering wheel to each side a few times;
- With the engine switched off, check the oil level in the tank. This should decrease;
- Add oil to the recommended level;
- Repeat the last 3 steps until the level remains in the recommended level .
Maintenance
Car manufacturers recommend that you do a full check to the steering system every 50,000 kilometres. Among these checks, the most important is the oil level .
When you change your tires, steering alignment should be something to be done, as a well-aligned steering reduces the risk of future problems, not only in tire wear, but also in the power steering system.
What cares you should have?
To avoid further wear of the power steering, you should take the following aspects into account while driving your vehicle:
- Never leave the car parked with the wheels turned.
When parking your vehicle, always leave it with the wheels pointed straight so that there is no effort of the steering oil pump. - Do not turn the wheel completely.
When performing idling or parking maneuvers try not to take the steering wheel to its limits.
One of the most frequent symptoms of a steering in poor condition is a feel of toughness .In this is the case, you should goas soon as possible to workshop.
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