Steering Rack Location

Owner	@Gerard Cardenas
Status	In Progress
Contributors	@Philip Bortolotti @Cesar Hernandez
Approved
Due date	Jun 2, 2024
Decision
On this page	1 Problem statement 2 Research insights 3 Solution hypothesis 4 Design options 5 Follow up 6 Source files

Problem statement

U-Joint setup is required to be past the 45 degrees possible for the current U Joints. Additionally, the U-Joints are two different angles => decreasing the power transmission from the steering to the rack

Research insights

Solution hypothesis

Design options

Steering rack NEEDS to be extended to reduce the length of the tie rods
How are we going to positively lock the steering extender (since the rack has a blind hole)
Bolt the clevis into the steering extender (need to safety wire the bolt onto the clevis) and have the adjustable tie rod with heim joints and jam nuts at both ends
Include linear bearings mounted to the frame tubes for support at both ends and implement steering stop at ends of the extenders (as a step in the shaft) to make contact with linear bearing housings at full turn

		Option 1	Option 2	Option 3

	Option 1	Option 2	Option 3
Overview	Use a double u joint to increase the allowable angle and help achieve the desired angle. Need a support to constrain the steering column from moving	Move the steering rack to the top of the frame and angle the rack to match the angle of the steering wheel. Need to create new steering arm on the upright	Use a 120 degree bevel gear enclosed in a gearbox which is mounted to the frame. Depending on bevel gear position, one or two u joints can be used
Screenshot
Link
Benefits and risks	simplest solution Need extra support which will need additional mounting tabs on frame	increase legroom for driver (makes egress easier), eliminates need for joints and gears alters steering geometry by increasing bump steer necessitates new steering arm to protrude above and to the side of upright	reduces angle needed for both u joints/eliminates need for two u joints bevel gear can be tricky to keep meshing bevel gear with correct dimensions may be difficult to obtain
Criteria
Criteria

Follow up

Decision	Status	Next steps

Decision	Status	Next steps
	decided / in review / other

Source files

Type /link to add links to design files.

Longhorn Racing Solar