free play 2

[handle]

I am looking for a source of data on the size of typical backlash, however small, in the steering system mechanisms of automotive vehicles in general, and of trucks in particular.

 

[BandH]

Why don't you contact some manufacturers - for example ZF supply many components for steering systems

 

[stltikn]

One contact would be TRW Steering Systems. My experience regarding steering system designs is to eliminate all free play in the system. This is accomplished in many cleaver ways. For rack and pinion systems it is a spring loaded yoke that maintains preasure against the rack that is held against the pinion. Preloaded recirculating ball systems in the steering boxes of most trucks and larger passanger vehicles. The inner and outer tie rod ends are typiclly loaded up by compressing plastic bearings against the burnished ball end. GM has used spring loaded hard seats that maintain pressure and eliminate play. In all the systems there exists the ability to react to shock loading. The preloads will momentrily relax upon overload and will, generally, return to a zero free play condition when the load is removed. In modern vehicles, freeplay is unacceptable. Hope this helps. Stltikn Dpl. Eng.