When a driver turns the steering wheel in a vehicle equipped with hydraulic power steering, fluid circulates through the system to provide assist. Arrange the steps of this hydraulic fluid flow path in the correct order from fluid intake to reservoir return.
- 1The power steering pump draws hydraulic fluid from the fluid reservoir.
- 2Pressurized fluid flows through the high-pressure hose to the rotary control valve in the steering gear.
- 3The control valve directs high-pressure fluid into the power cylinder to assist steering movement.
- 4Low-pressure fluid exits the steering gear through the return line and flows back into the reservoir.
Answer
The correct sequence begins with the pump drawing fluid from the reservoir, followed by high-pressure delivery to the control valve, hydraulic assist acting inside the power cylinder, and low-pressure return of fluid back to the reservoir.
In a hydraulic power steering system, fluid circulation follows a continuous closed loop: the pump draws fluid from the reservoir, pressurizes it, and sends it through the high-pressure hose to the rotary control valve. The valve routes the fluid into the appropriate side of the power cylinder to provide turning assist, and displaced low-pressure fluid is routed through the return line back into the reservoir.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid Circuit and Flow Path
Estimated Time:45s