Hopefully I’m asking this question correctly:
I recently started working at a hotel and sometimes I’m driving the shuttle – a new Ford vehicle. I’ve noticed it’s steering wheel is exceptionally easy to whip left or right, making it almost fun to turn.
On the other hand, my car, a 2020 Kia Soul, has a stiffer feeling steering wheel. It’s not as snappy/”loose feeling” as in the Ford.
Is it simply a matter of engineering? A different type of steering column? Are bigger (and perhaps newer) vehicles typically designed to have a snappier steering wheel to help with turning, or is it something to do with the manufacturer?
In: Engineering
Yes, it is a matter of engineering/design.
When you turn the steering wheel left and right, there are two things actually making the wheels turn. First your muscles and physically moving mechanical parts. But more importantly, there is a hydraulic power steering system HELPING you turn the wheels. Try turning your steering wheel in the car when the engine isn’t running (and therefore the power steering is off) and see how much harder it is. Because you actually have to force the wheels to turn under the weight of the engine.
Larger vehicles like busses or your shuttle often have beefier power steering systems, because there’s WAY more weight in the wheels, meaning it is easier to turn with those hydraulics helping you.
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