1. Power Steering Pump: The power steering pump is the heart of the system. It is usually located on the engine and is driven by the engine's crankshaft or camshaft. The pump generates hydraulic pressure that assists in steering the vehicle.
2. Reservoir: The power steering reservoir is a container that holds the power steering fluid. It is often translucent, allowing you to check the fluid level and condition.
3. Power Steering Lines (Hoses): These flexible hoses carry the power steering fluid from the pump to the steering rack or steering gear and back. They are usually black or dark-colored.
4. Steering Rack (or Steering Gear): The steering rack or steering gear is the mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the steering wheel into the left-right movement of the wheels. It contains the steering rack (in rack-and-pinion systems) or the steering gears (in recirculating ball systems) and is connected to the steering linkage or tie rods.
5. Control Valve: The control valve regulates the flow of power steering fluid to the steering rack or steering gear. It is typically integrated into the steering rack or steering gear housing.
6. Pressure Relief Valve: This valve helps to control the pressure within the power steering system and prevent it from becoming too high.
7. Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is the part that the driver interacts with to control the vehicle's direction. It is connected to the steering column, which transmits the rotational motion to the steering rack or steering gear.
The specific appearance and design of the power steering system components may vary depending on the make, model, and year of the vehicle. However, these are the main elements that make up a typical power steering system.
