Power Steering Cylinders

The power steering cylinder is a hydraulic ram that is linked to the steering linkage. There are two types of hydraulic power steering systems, both engine-driven power steering pumps.

Power steering cylinder function

The two types of hydraulic power steering systems function in a way that one system pump supplies fluid to a rack and pinion steering gear, and the other fluid is sent to the recirculating ball steering box. In this specific system, the control valve and the power piston are components crucial to the power steering box.

There is a ball stud at the end of the power steering cylinder which is attached to a point along the reach of the center link. The outer power assist system has a control valve that is linked to the end of the center link as well as the pitman, which is all connected to the ball stud.

Common issues with a bad power steering cylinder

A bad power steering cylinder can lead to fluid leaks and loose steering.