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.