Steering damper of rack-and-pinion steering, component description - GF46.20-P-5139SX

MODEL 216.3, 221.0 /1 up to Model Year 8

Left steer shown

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Damper Components Of Rack-And-Pinion Steering

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Fig 2: Identifying Perforated Disk

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Location

The two steering dampers are integrated in the threaded fitting at the center of the rack-and-pinion steering housing.

Task

The task of the integrated steering dampers is to cushion the forces and shocks transmitted from the road surface via the steering linkage.

Function

Steering damper pressurized

The oil is fed under high-pressure and non-derated through four holes in the perforated disk against the force of the return stroke spring at the return stroke plate and then on to one of the working cylinders.

Dampened return flow pressure

The oil flowing out of the opposite working cylinder is forced via four further holes in the perforated disk. As a result the disk spring is pressed on and the oil is delivered into the return line. This restricted pressure provides the required damping effect.