The mechanical process of steering is not as simple as it may seem. Steering involves a series of motion translations and force amplification. Basically, the steering system of an automobile is comprised of the steering wheel, the steering shaft, the steering pinion, the steering rack, the tie rod, the steering arms and the front wheels. Generally speaking, steering refers to the redirecting or maneuvering of the vehicle to a new direction. Steering enables the vehicle to go from one point to another without colliding with obstacles. Since automobiles do not run on tracks like locomotives, a steering system is needed to direct the automobile. The steering system gives the automobile a distinct advantage over locomotives. Automobiles do not have fixed track to run on. Hence, they are more adaptable to almost any type of terrains.
Tie rods such as the Mazda tie rod are crucial components of the steering system. Tie rods are tensile components. This means that they are capable of pulling but incapable of pushing. This characteristic sets the tie rod apart from other steering components. Tie rods are not very good in holding compressive force. Hence, they cannot be used in pivot mechanisms. Tie rods are best in one task, and that is the task of pulling. Tie rods connect the steering arm and the steering rack. When the steering rack moves, the steering arms are pulled by the tie rods to the direction where the steering rack moved.
When you turn the steering wheel of the automobile you are driving, you are actually pulling the tie rods in the same direction. The rotational or arc motion of the steering wheel is transmitted by the steering rod to the pinion. The pinion is a toothed gear that is located at the other end of the steering shaft. The arc or rotational motion is transmitted to the steering rack which serves as the track for the steering pinion. The steering rack is actually a toothed track on which the steering pinion runs. Since the steering rack can only move sideways, the arc or rotational motion of the pinion is translated to linear motion.
When the steering rack moves sideways, it pulls tie rods on both ends. In turn, the tie rods pull the steering arm. The steering arms then rotate to pull the front wheels. In effect, the linear motion is converted back to arc motion by the front wheels. Tie rods contribute the stability of steering. If you are looking for reliable tie rods, you have come to the right place. Parts Train has a large stock of aftermarket tie rods available at very reasonable price.