The steering column uses an impact absorbing mechanism which absorbs impact energy in the event of a collision as well as a tilt steering mechanism which enables the driver to obtain an optimum driving position.
The tilt steering mechanism is essentially the same as the conventional one.
For 2000-SOHC, a shimmy damper is included to reduce handle shimmy*.
The tilt steering mechanism is essentially the same as the conventional one.
For 2000-SOHC, a shimmy damper is included to reduce handle shimmy*.
NOTE: *:Vibration produced on the rotating shaft of the steering wheel due to side run-out of the front wheels.
<2000-SOHC>
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<2000-DOHC and 2400>
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SHOCK ABSORBING MECHANISM
PRIMARY IMPACT
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When the vehicle collides with something and there is a load added to the shaft sub assembly from the gearbox, the shaft sub assembly slides in the pipe sub assembly to absorb the shock load. This prevents the steering column from moving backwards during the impact.
SECONDARY IMPACT
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- When the driver's body falls against the deployed air bag, the tilt bracket (A) moves forwards by crushing the polyacetal resin, causing the steering column assembly to move into the engine compartment.
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- As the bracket breaks free, the rivet comes out of the U-section groove in the tilt plate, allowing the steering column assembly to move forward.