It’s Under Control

Like many vehicle systems, steering and suspension components wear gradually over time. The two systems are directly related to each other, which is why they are generally referred to together.

Because steering and suspension components wear gradually over time, the incremental loss of ride control and handling often go unnoticed. But steering and suspension systems are critical to vehicle safety, which is why it’s important to inspect both systems annually.

There are two common steering systems in use on Chrysler vehicles today: Rack and pinion and the parallelogram design. Despite the complexities of today’s vehicles, rack and pinion steering systems are relatively straight forward. The steering wheel is connected to the steering box through the steering column. The steering box turns to rotation of the steering wheel 90° and uses high-pressure fluid to help actuate the steering.

On parallelogram systems, the steering box has an arm attached to the output shaft called the pitman arm. This connects the steering box to the steering gear. The pitman arm is connected to one end of the center or drag link. In the other end of the center link is an idler arm. Between the idler and pitman arms, the center link is supported in the proper position to keep the left and right wheels working together.

The inner tie rod ends are attached to either end of the center link and provide pivot points for the steering gear. From there it goes to the outer tie rod ends through an adjustment sleeve. This sleeve joins the inner and outer tie rod ends together and allows for adjustment when the front wheels are aligned. The outer tie rod ends are connected to the steering knuckle that actually turns the front wheels. The steering knuckle has an upper and lower ball joint that it pivots on and creates the geometry of the steering axis.

The weaknesses of the systems are at the pivot points. These pivot points wear over time and need to be replaced.

On the suspension side, the MacPherson strut assembly, common on virtually all Chrysler front-wheel-drive vehicles today, replaces the upper control arm, front shock absorber and ball joint. This setup improves handling and responsiveness. It controls ride much the same way as a standard hydraulic shock absorber. It also keeps the front eng aligned and eliminates, in some cases, the need for caster and camber adjustments. The strut housing serves as the structural part of the suspension system and connects the upper strut bearing to the lower ball joint so that the entire assembly can pivot when the steering wheel is turned.

Over time, however, MacPherson strut assemblies may start to leak, leading to a gradual loss of ride control and vehicle stability. And, of course, rear shocks and springs will also wear to a point where it affects ride comfort and control.

Mopar. The Authentic Choice.

Professional technicians know that Mopar steering and suspension components are the authentic choice for Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles. When it comes time for service, Mopar offers a full line of steering and suspension components for every service requirement.

• O.E. — Factory direct replacement parts for all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles.
• Value Line — Authentic Mopar quality at prices that are competitive with premium aftermarket brands. Mopar Value Line products are ideal for price-conscious vehicle owners who also want top quality.
• Remanufactured — All Mopar remanufactured products are returned to exact O.E. specifications through a rigorous remanufacturing and validation process. Mopar reman parts are perfect for owners of older vehicles since there are significant cost savings compared with new O.E. products.

If you’re servicing a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle steering and suspension, make sure you use Mopar parts. Only Mopar is the authentic O.E. choice for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. Mopar parts have the quality, reliability and durability you want designed right in.

Attention installers: See your Mopar Magazine dealer for complete information about Mopar steering and suspension components along with application listings. Whether you choose O.E., Value Line or remanufactured, you’re giving your customers the best overall combination of quality and value. You can also go to www.mopar.com for more information about Mopar’s full line of service and repair parts, performance products, accessories, Team Mopar racing news and the Mopar lifestyle.