Modern driving is impossible to imagine without comfortable handling, which has become the standard thanks to the introduction of various driver assistance systems. One of the first and most common technologies that radically changed the approach to machine management, was the power steering. It makes it easy to turn heavy wheels even at low speed or while parking, minimizing the physical effort of the driver.
Many motorists wonder: power steering is what kind of device and why it hums or flows? Understanding the principles of this system is necessary for every car owner, since timely diagnosis and proper care can extend the life of the unit by hundreds of thousands of kilometers. In this article, we will discuss the device, types and main problems associated with GURG.
Historically, the first to use this technology was truck and heavy equipment manufacturers, where it was almost impossible to physically turn the wheels without help. Later, the system migrated to passenger cars, becoming an integral part of comfort, especially for drivers spending a lot of time in dense urban traffic. Now. hydraulic fluid In the system, GUR is as important a consumable as oil in the engine.
Principle of operation and system design
The main idea of the hydraulic booster is to transfer the pressure of the liquid from the pump to the actuator, which helps turn the wheels. When you turn the steering wheel, the torsion in the distributor twists, opening channels to supply oil under pressure to one side of the piston. This creates an effort that complements your own strength, making the steering wheel light and responsive.
The key element of the whole system is pumpThis creates the necessary pressure in the circuit. It is driven by a belt from the crankshaft of the engine, so it works only when the engine is started. The pressure in the system can reach tens of atmospheres, which requires high reliability of all connections and hoses.
It is important to understand that the system operates in a closed loop: oil from the tank is sucked in by the pump, fed to the distributor, does the work of moving the reiki piston and returns back to the tank. It is in the tank that the liquid cools and the air that enters the system is separated. Rack mechanism with a piston converts the linear motion of the rod into the rotation of the wheels.
⚠️ Warning: Never hold the steering wheel in the extreme position for more than 5 seconds. This leads to a sharp jump in pressure and overheating of the liquid, since the discharge valve may not cope with the volume, and the pump operates in maximum load mode.
Modern systems are often equipped with an electromagnetic valve that regulates pressure depending on the speed of the car. At high speeds, the steering force is artificially increased to ensure stability and safety, and at low speeds it is reduced for ease of maneuvering.
The main components of hydropower
In order for the system to function properly, all its components must work in a perfect bundle. Any failure of one element immediately affects the operation of the entire node. Let’s look at the main components in more detail so that you understand what each detail is responsible for.
The first and most important element is power-tankwhich serves as a reservoir for working fluid. Inside it is often installed filtering mesh, trapping wear products and metal shavings. Through the lid of the tank, visual monitoring of the liquid level is usually carried out using the "Min" and "Max" labels.
The second important node is itself pumpwhich may be of the rotary or lobe type. Blade pumps are more common in passenger cars due to their compactness and ability to develop high pressure. The resource of the pump directly depends on the quality of the liquid used and the timeliness of its replacement.
The third element is hydraulic-rail or a gearbox where the pressure of a liquid is converted into mechanical motion. Inside the reiki are sealing ossils, which wear out over time, which leads to leaks. The system also includes hoses and pipelines.
- 🔧 Pump: creates pressure in the system, is driven by the belt from the engine.
- 🛢️ Buck: Stores a supply of liquid, cools it and filters it.
- ⚙️ Distributor: directs fluid flows depending on the steering wheel.
- 🔄 Reika: Activator that transmits force to the wheels.
All these components are connected by high and low pressure pipelines. High pressure hoses are made of special rubber with a metal cord, as they experience enormous loads. Their condition should be checked regularly for cracks and swelling.
Types of steering amplifiers
Technology is not standing still, and the classic hydraulic amplifier has evolved into several different modifications. Understanding the difference between the two will help you better navigate the characteristics of a car when buying or repairing.
Classical. GURG (Hydropower steering) works constantly while the engine is running. The pump always pumps fluid, even if you are driving in a straight line and don't turn the steering wheel. This is a simple and reliable option, but it has one significant drawback - it takes away part of the engine power and increases fuel consumption.
A more modern version is the Electrohydraulic amplifier (EGUR). In this system, the pump is not driven by the engine belt, but by a separate electric motor. This allows the pump to be turned on only when force is required, for example when turning the steering wheel or at low speeds.
Fully electric amplifier (EUR) does not use hydraulic fluid at all. Here, the force is created by an electric motor built into the steering column or rack. These systems are the most economical, but many drivers note their less natural feedback compared to hydraulics.
| Type of amplifier | Pump drive | Fuel consumption | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic GUR | Engine belt | Above average | Tall. |
| egour | Electric motor | Medium. | Medium |
| EUR | Absent. | Minimum | Depends on the electronics. |
The choice of the type of amplifier often depends on the class of the car. On heavy SUVs and trucks, classic hydraulics are still common because of its ability to withstand huge loads. Electric analogues are increasingly being installed on compact city cars.
Typical malfunctions and their signs
Like any mechanism, the hydraulic booster system is subject to wear. Timely identification of problems avoids expensive repairs and loss of control of the car at a critical moment. There are a number of symptoms that signal malfunction.
The most common feature is fume when the steering wheel is rotating. A hum or howl usually indicates low fluid levels, air entering the system, or wear of the bearings and pump blades. Ignoring this sound can cause the pump to fail quickly.
The second alarming signal is weighting. If significant effort is required to turn the wheels, especially at low speeds, this may indicate a malfunction of the pump, leakage of fluid or a break in the drive belt. In some cases, the problem lies in the distributor itself.
⚠️ Warning: If the steering wheel becomes heavy suddenly, on the move, stop immediately in a safe place. Check the tension of the pump drive belt and the fluid level. Continuing to drive with a faulty GUR is dangerous!
The third feature is leakage. The appearance of oily spots under the front of the car or on the suspension elements suggests that the oil seals or hoses need to be replaced. Hydraulic fluid is aggressive to rubber products, so its hit on the anthers of SRUS or Silentblocks can destroy them.
- 🔊 GUG: indicates cavitation, air in the system or wear of the pump.
- 🏋️ Heavy steering wheel: a sign of low pressure or a break in the belt.
- 💧 Leaks: destruction of glands, seals or hoses.
- 📉 Instability: The rudder jerks may indicate problems with the spool mechanism.
Also pay attention to the color of the liquid in the tank. If it is blackened or metallic lusters are visible in it, then there is an active wear of friction pairs inside the system. In this case, it is required not just topping, but a complete washing and replacement of components.
Operational rules and maintenance
The durability of the power steering directly depends on the driving culture and regular maintenance. Simple rules of operation will help to avoid breakdowns and keep the system in working condition throughout the life of the car.
The main rule is to monitor fluid-level. It is recommended to check at a cold engine. If the level falls, it is necessary not only to top up the liquid, but also to look for the cause of the leak. Using an inappropriate type of liquid can cause rubber seals to swell.
The second rule is drive belt. Its tension should be within the normal range: too weak belt will slip, causing squeal and insufficient pressure, and overstretched - will accelerate the wear of the bearings of the pump and the belt itself. Regularly wound the belt for cracks.
☑️ Verification of the status of the GUR
The third rule is to avoid extreme stress. Do not park the "stretching" when the wheels hit the curb, and you continue to press on the gas and turn the steering wheel. This creates peak pressure that can push the coils through or damage the body of the reiki.
Replacement of fluid in the system of hydraulic booster should be made according to the manufacturer's regulations, usually every 60-100 thousand kilometers of run or every 2-3 years. Old liquid loses its lubricating and anticorrosive properties, which leads to accelerated wear of parts.
Can different GUR liquids be mixed?
Mixing liquids of different colors and types (mineral and synthetic) is strictly prohibited. This can lead to a chemical reaction, foaming and destruction of the system's rubber seals. If you don’t know what’s in the water, it’s best to completely wash the system.
Diagnosis and replacement of components
When prevention is no longer helpful, repairs are needed. Diagnostics of the hydraulic booster system begins with a visual inspection and measurement of pressure in the circuit using a special pressure gauge. This allows you to determine exactly which node lost performance.
Replacement pump A procedure that requires certain skills. After installing a new unit, it is necessary to pump the system correctly, removing all the air. To do this, the steering wheel is slowly scrolled from stop to stop several times with the engine running, controlling the fluid level.
Repairs slat Often involves replacing the glands and sealing rings. However, if the mirror of the rod or the inner surface of the sleeve has deep bullies and corrosion, a simple replacement of rubber bands will not help - you will need a replacement of the assembly or its professional restoration with waste.
⚠️ Note: When replacing system components, be sure to use a new liquid. The old, merged from the system, can not be reused, since it contains wear products and has lost its properties.
After any work related to dismantling the steering, be sure to check the angles of installation of the wheels (fall-fall). Even a minimal displacement of the elements of the rail can lead to the car being sidelined and uneven wear of the tires.
When replacing the GUR liquid, use a syringe or pear to pump out the old oil from the tank to maximally clean the system before pouring the new one.
How often should you change the fluid in the hydraulic booster?
Manufacturers often say that the liquid is filled for the entire life, but the realities of operation dictate their rules. In conditions of traffic jams, temperature changes and dust, the liquid loses its properties faster. The optimal replacement interval is every 60,000 km or every 2-3 years. If the liquid is darkened and smells burnt, change immediately.
Why is the hydraulic booster buzzing cold?
A cold engine hum is often caused by the old fluid thickening, or there are microcracks in the pump oment through which air is sucked. When warmed up, the gaps widen, and the hum may disappear. Also, the reason may be low fluid levels or the use of oil with inappropriate viscosity.
What happens if the power belt breaks?
If the belt breaks, the pump will stop working and the steering wheel will become very heavy, especially at low speeds. The car will not be completely lost, but it will require considerable physical effort. The movement can be continued only to the nearest service, observing increased caution, since the maneuverability of the machine will sharply decrease.
Regular fluid and belt replacement is the cheapest way to avoid costly pump and power booster rail replacement.
Summing up, we can say that power steering is the most important element of safety and comfort. Understanding how it works and what can go wrong will allow you to maintain confident control of the car in all situations. Take care of your equipment and it will last a long time.