One of the most important components of the steering system of an automobile is the tie rod end. A tie rod end such as the Mazda tie rod end is connected to the steering arm of the wheel. A tie rod end resembles an L-shaped faucet. The leg of the L-shaped tie rod end is a threaded bolt that is connected to the steering arm of the wheel, while the main body is connected to the tie rod. A bulky joint connects the leg and the main body. This joint is a lubed bearing that serve as pivot. A tie rod end connects the wheel to the steering rack of the steering system. It allows the steering arm to pivot as the tie rod pulls the steering arm of the wheel. The tie rod is also subjected under great strain when the front wheels are being steered. The strain is mainly because of the pulling force of the steering rack. When the steering wheel is turn, the rotational or arch motion of the steering wheel is transmitted to the steering rack by the pinion of the steering shaft.

As the pinion turns, its teeth lock with the teeth of the steering rack, thereby moving the steering rack. Hence, the rotational movement is translated into linear movement. The steering rack slides from left to right and vice versa. This action causes the tie rod to be pulled. Consequently, since the tie rod is connected to the steering arm of the wheel, the wheel will move corresponding to the direction of the steering wheel. The pinion and rack mechanism also provide gear reduction that is translated into force multiplication. Hence, turning the steering wheel is relatively easier. This force multiplication applies the principle of mechanical leveraging. The resistance of the wheels and the weight of the car are compensated by the gears. On the other hand, mechanical advantage is also aided by the tie rod ends. A tie rod end such as the Mazda tie rod end serves as pivot that allows the tie rod and the steering arm to move more smoothly. The lubricated bearing of the tie rod end eliminates or at least minimizes the friction resistance brought about by the tensile force.

When the vehicle is being steered the front wheels are not exactly of the same angular position. The angle of the inner wheel is always more acute that the angle of the outer wheel. This is because the inner wheel serves as the axis of rotation of the vehicle. The outer wheel covers a wider angle compared to the inner wheel. This allows the vehicle to turn without the need for differential speed. The speed of the inner and outer wheel can be of the same rate. This is very important in front-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. The drive shaft design is more simplified. The stability of steering is also aided by the tie rod end. Since tensile force is maintained equal for both the inner and outer wheel during steering, the wheels are not wobbly. In this manner, traction and torque are maintained at optimal level. When during steering you felt some lag or delay in the action of the front wheels, this could be an indication of a defective steering system.

Amanda Nealy is a 26-year-old proprietor of a local car rental service in Montgomery, Alabama. Amanda is the daughter of an automobile designer, and inherited her father’s passion for cars of all kinds. Know more about Mazda Tie Rod End.

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