The steering linkage consists of the following components:

On some S4WD vehicles, the steering shock absorber attaches to the relay rod

When you turn the steering wheel, the gear rotates the pitman arm which forces the relay rod to 1 side. The tie rod ends connect to a shaft that is part of the relay rod assembly. Turning the steering wheel transfers the steering force to the wheels. Use the relay rod shaft in order to adjust the toe measurements. The pitman arm and the idler arm support the relay rod. The idler arm pivots on a support attached to the frame rail. The steering shock absorber attaches to the frame and the relay arm.

On models with rack and pinion steering, the interaction between the pinion and the rack teeth converts the steering wheel rotation to lateral (side-to-side) rack motion. As the rack moves laterally, the rack pushes and pulls the tie rod ends in order to turn the front wheels.

The condition of the steering linkage affects the steering performance.

Potentially dangerous steering action will result if the parts are:

If you repair or replace steering linkage components, inspect the steering geometry or the front end alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.