Steering System - Power: Description

NOTE: Some Achieva and Grand Am vehicles are equipped with Variable Effort Steering (VES) system, identified by a solenoid on the power steering pump at the pressure line outlet. See STEERING SYSTEM - VARIABLE article in the STEERING Section.

Pump pressurizes fluid, then sends it through pump flow control valve to the steering gear (rack and pinion assembly). Rotary control valve in steering gear directs fluid to either side of the rack piston, depending on turning direction. Rack piston, attached to the rack, converts hydraulic pressure into linear force, reducing turning effort.