VARIABLE RATIO STEERING GEAR

摘要

A rack (1) and pinion (4) steering gear for a vehicle in which the steering angle ratio varies as a function of at least both the steering wheel angle input by the driver and vehicle speed. The steering gear comprising a rack ( 1) laterally displaceable with respect to a steering gear housing and a pinion (4) laterally moveable within the housing substantially in a direction of travel of the rack (1) whilst engaged with the rack (1). The steering angle ratio is increased in a central region of travel of the rack (1) when compar ed to regions either side thereof, and steering angle ratio is further increase d in the central region as vehicle speed increases.