Importance of Steering Control Systems

The steering control systems is one of the most crucial aftermarket components for European trucks or any heavy vehicle.

Without reliable, long-lasting steering components, the steering control systems may become less sensitive, responsive, and hard to operate.

Therefore, it’s important to get it right. Here is a quick look at the different components of a steering system and their importance.

Steering wheel

The driver uses the steering wheel to adjust the direction of the wheel and turn the truck.

Although stock wheels are great, aftermarket steering wheels offer custom driver options like control buttons, varied shapes for user comfort and more steering position options.

Steering linkage

The primary purpose of the steering linkage is to turn the truck’s wheels. However, it is divided into various components with individual functions.

These parts include the drag link, pitman’s arm, steering arm, ball joints, steering stops, spindle, kingpin, stub axle and tie rod. All the parts work in tandem to turn the wheel.

Steering shaft

The hollow steering column houses the steering shaft, which rotates together with the steering wheel when it’s turned.

The steering box receives the motion of the steering wheel through a direct connection at the top of the steering system and serves the purpose of stabilising and securing the wiring and steering column lock.

Steering gear

The steering gearbox has gears that transfer the driver’s steering inputs to the steering linkage, which spins the wheels.

As a result, it amplifies the steering inputs from the driver, causing the front wheels to turn.

Although stock steering components are great, aftermarket parts have unique advantages.

In some cases, aftermarket components are the go-to option, for example, Alfred Heyd steering. Nonetheless, there are several reasons to invest in aftermarket steering components.

Price

Aftermarket components are often cheaper than similar stock options.

A possible explanation for the price difference is the brand value. Nonetheless, aftermarket parts are known to deliver the same performance, if not better.

Wide options

Stock components have limited options; however, aftermarket products bank on options.

There is an option to meet every specific need. Moreover, aftermarket components are often sold as singular units, while stock parts come as pre-assembled parts.

Performance

Although stock components have the inherent advantage of being sourced from the manufacturer, some aftermarket products are known to perform better.

The best explanation for this is the custom useability offered by aftermarket components. Since the products are more refined to serve individual needs, performance is better.

Durability

Contrary to popular opinion, aftermarket steering products last long; the only caveat is which ones you bought.

It’s important to purchase aftermarket products that have been tried and tested if you want good results. Therefore, user reviews and product research is important.

Although aftermarket components are great, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Some aftermarket products have poor reliability and poor performance.

Moreover, the wide range of options makes it hard to find what you need.

Finally, aftermarket products may infringe on insurance policies and deny members benefits.

Therefore, confirming with the insurer before installing any aftermarket products is important.

The steering control system is essential to a truck since it determines the overall driving experience.

Fortunately, aftermarket components are available to ensure you enjoy improved performance and experience. Take advantage and make your purchase.

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