Steering Service Sacramento
The vast majority of both manual and power steering systems in the world are comprised of the same basic components, which are the steering wheel that is connected to the system that is connected to the track rod that is connected to the tie rods that is connected to the steering arms. There are many different designs of this system. However, basically all of these designs move the track rod from left to right across the vehicle. Ball and socket joints are used to connect the ends of the track rod to the tie rods, which are then connected to the ends of the steering arms. The purpose of the tie rods is to permit an element of stability with the geometry of the system and movement of the suspension system. In order to obtain these different geometries, the lengths of the tie rod lengths can usually be adjusted.
The power steering service system on a vehicle is somewhat more complex. It is a very sophisticated and complicated hydraulic steering system. Usually this system is comprised of seals, hoses, valves, bearings, drive belts, linkages, a steering gear, and a power steering pump. By using an external power source to help turn the wheels on the vehicle, this steering system reduces the effort required for turning the vehicle by using an external power source to assist in turning the wheels or steering.
At ProTech Steering Service Sacramento, we have ASE certified automotive technicians that can handle any kind of steering problem. We are a family owned and operated business serving the greater Sacramento area and the surrounding communities. One of the most overlooked problems with power steering service Sacramento systems is that field and laboratory testing has demonstrated that by 50,000 miles the power steering fluid has measurably degraded. If it isn’t already included in the scheduled maintenance for your vehicle, we recommend that a onetime exchange of power steering fluid be accomplished at 50,000 miles. In addition, the fluid should be replaced when a system element, such as the rack and pinion, hose, or pump is replaced.
Another problem is that with high heat, high pressure is produced by the power steering pump that is between 800 and 2000 pounds. This can result in failure caused by fluid breakdown. Typical symptoms include pump leaks, erratic cornering, and whining and groaning noises. The solution to this problem is to introduce a very strong cleaner into the system that dissolves and suspends gums and varnish and gums in the system. Then all of the old fluid is exchanged with new high tech power steering fluid for both rack and pinion and conventional sector steering. The advantages include a longer lasting as well as a quieter operating system.
ProTech Steering Service Sacramento understands that neglected and dirty power steering fluid can:
- Result in expensive repairs of the elements of the system
- Result in leakage caused by harden seals, which can result in wear
- Reduce the effectiveness of the system
- Result in increased effort to steer the vehicle and noise
- It should be noted that the power steering rack alone may cost as much as $1,000 to replace.
Fresh fluid is clear and clean and clear. Neglected and dirty fluid usually looks like used engine oil and can reduce the performance of your system, and in sometimes even cause damage. If it has been a while since you had your system serviced, come to ProTech Steering Service Sacramento and let our ASE certified automotive steering technicians service your system.
Our system flush service includes:
- Removal of the old fluid from the reservoir
- Vacuum flushing the whole system, removing contaminants such as sludge from the system
- Refilling the system with fluid that is recommended by the manufacturer
- Restoring power steering performance
This fluid flush will help to prevent expensive, unexpected, and premature system failures. It will also provide the correct lubrication to the elements of the system. Other benefits include the elimination or reduction of steering noise and the avoidance of sluggish turning on cold mornings.
ProTech Steering Service Sacramento recommends that you bring your vehicle to us for service whenever your steering service system exhibits early warning signs of trouble, which include:
- Your power steering fluid changes color. This could mean that the fluid is starting to oxidize. When this happens the color of the fluid will change to black from gray from red. This means that it is time to change the fluid with fresh, new fluid.
- If you see bubbles in your fluid it might mean that possibly there is a dangerous air leak in your system and you need to visit us as soon as possible.
- Since your system relies on a high level of steady fluid being pumped into it, a leak can be a real problem. It could an out of line connection or a hole in the pipe.
- Difficulty turning the steering wheel might mean that your drive belt requires attention since it either isn’t staying in place or requires tightening or it is getting too hot.
- You might have a problem with your system whenever you turn the steering wheel and hear a whinnying squeal. Usually, these noises are the result of a worn out steering pump or a worn out drive belt.
Whenever you experience any of these systems, come and see us as soon as possible. The majority of our automotive business is the result of either referrals from satisfied customers or returning satisfied customers. ProTech Auto Steering Service specialists will work hard to make you one of those customers.