Steering gear and method of assembling such gear

摘要

A variable ratio steering apparatus includes a longitudinally extending rack gear which is movable along and rotatable about its longitudinal axis. One end of the rack is connected with an output member or tie rod by a connector assembly. The connector assembly includes a housing which encloses a universal joint. The universal joint is effective to allow the tie rod to pivot in a plurality of directions relative to the rack gear and housing. A bearing assembly is disposed within the housing adjacent to the universal joint and connects the rack gear with the housing to enable the rack gear to rotate relative to the housing without effecting actuation of the universal joint. The universal joint advantageously includes a ball and socket which is preloaded by deforming the housing to urge the bearing assembly toward the universal joint.