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What are Ball Joints all about?
Ball joints are a part of your vehicle's suspension system that connect
the steering knuckles to the control arms. A ball joint is essentially a
flexible ball and socket that allows the suspension to move and, at the
same time, the wheels to steer. Cars and trucks will have multiple ball
joint assemblies depending on their type of suspension system. Like any
other suspension component, ball joints will eventually wear out and
become loose. Excessive play in the joint can affect wheel alignment and
tire wear. Loose joints can also cause suspension noise (typically a
"clunking" sound when going over a bump). If a ball joint fails, the
suspension can collapse, causing a loss of control of the vehicle.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Ball Joints?
● Clunking noise from front tires.
● Steering wheel shakes.
● Car moves to the right or left, esp. going
over the bumps.
● Vehicle tires have abnormal wear.
What is a Tie Rod End all about?
A car’s steering wheel is connected to the steering gear that helps the
steering wheel turn the wheels. The steering gear is connected to the
wheels via the tie rod ends. The job of the tie rod end is to ensure the
wheels are aligned. It provides the adjustment for wheel alignment that
keeps the tires from wearing out on the inner and outer edges. If they
wear out, the wheels will lose alignment and you may find that the tires
and steering wheels are shaking when you drive the car.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Tie Rod End?
●
Excessive tire wear.
● Car pulling to the left or right.
● Steering wheel shakes.
● Vehicle cannot be aligned.
Steering
Systems
The
primary function of your cars suspension and steering systems is to allow
the wheels to move independently of the car, while keeping it "suspended"
and stable. Any play or uncontrolled motion in these systems results in a
deterioration of handling and accelerated tire wear. Vehicle alignment is
closely tied to the condition of the suspension and steering systems.
Worn or loose components affect the ability to control the toe angle, and
may result in a loss of directional stability and accelerated tire wear.
The main components of a
Conventional system are:
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1.
Steering Gear Box
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2.
Center Link
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3.
Pitman Arm
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4. Idler
Arm
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5. Tie
Rods
The main
components of a Rack and Pinion steering system are:
Suspension System
Worn or loose components affect the suspension systems ability to control
motion and alignment angles, resulting in a deterioration of vehicle
handling and stability, and accelerated tire wear. The main components of
the suspension system are:
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