Steering Linkages
Product added to cart
Steering Linkages - Connecting the wheels to the steering wheel
Steering linkages cover items that are not found in a rack and pinion steering system. They are common in vehicles fitted with a steering box. Rack and pinion is fitted to most modern vehicles where the steering box is common on older vehicles. Both do the same job, turning the front wheels left and right. The rack and pinion tends to have a more direct and precise a feel to the steering compared to a steering box.
Some steering linkage components are:
Drag Link - Also called the Centre Rod or Relay Rod this part is usually in the middle of the vehicle and connects the steering box to the tie rod ends that turn each of the wheels.
Pitman Arm - Arm that connects the steering box to the drag link
Idler Arm - Can be attached to the opposite end of the drag link and helps support it when moved from side to side by the pitman arm.
Steering Damper - Shock absorber fitted to the drag link to take the quick response out of the steering. Very common in motor bikes they are handy in four wheel drives when driving offroad. If the front wheel hits an obstacle it can wrench the steering wheel quite hard and quickly. The damper will slow this down so it is not so violent.
Most of the items can wear so at some point will need to be replaced. Some of the warning signs can be vagueness in the steering or clunking or knocking sound when the steering wheel is turned. A visual inspection is a good way to check. Get someone to move the steering left to right while you check for any play or noise in the arms and joints.
Repco have a range of these items to suit most vehicles. Check online or with our staff in store. We have a range of tools that can help with the removal and installation of these items as well.
Product Availability by Store Location
Hours
