Steering Components

If not properly lubricated, ball bearings located at the end of the steering column can negatively impact steering responsiveness and transfer noise and vibration through the steering column up to the driver. In addition, couplings within the steering column must be free to move but must not produce any noise or vibration as it would lower the perceived quality of the vehicle. Greases can effectively quiet these applications while also providing durability and wear protection. As each system is different, load should be considered when selecting a grease. Steering systems with heavy loads require a heavy viscosity grease to ensure the proper wear prevention and mechanical damping properties.

With the push to engineer new hybrid and electric vehicles, every milli-amp of power that can be saved translates into extended driving range. Synthetic hydrocarbon greases with advanced additive packages greatly reduce frictional torque between the gears within the EPS system. This allows for lower current draw over extended periods of use. Additionally, these products improve low temperature torque performance, while also providing wear protection and vibrational damping. These synthetic hydrocarbon greases also act as an environmental seal due to their superior resistance to water washout / spray-off, corrosion protection, and wear mitigating capabilities.

Steering column mechanisms call for motion control greases, which are formulated to prevent wear and inhibit unwanted motion, noise and vibrations. These greases provide reliable, smooth, low-friction motion for high-shear mechanisms. Motion control greases provide lifetime lubrication within the gearbox and other pivoting and sliding components.

Intermediate shafts, also referred to as spline shafts, are a popular method used to enable telescoping steering columns to function while absorbing vibration and shock. For plastic-to-metal interfaces, a medium-viscosity, synthetic hydrocarbon grease enhanced by PTFE ensures good slip and low “stiction.” For metal-to-metal interfaces, a heavier synthetic hydrocarbon grease is recommended. A lighter grease designed for sliding surfaces is recommended for tight tolerances between telescoping shafts.