Abstract: A steering column assembly includes a first shaft, a second shaft, and a clip. The first shaft has a first yoke disposed at an end thereof. The second shaft has a second yoke disposed at an end thereof. The second yoke is connected to the first yoke such that rotation of the first shaft is configured to rotate the second shaft and such that the second shaft is rotatable relative to the first shaft. The clip is removably connected to one of the first shaft and the second shaft. The clip limits rotation of the second shaft relative to the first shaft prior to installation of the steering column assembly in a vehicle.

Abstract: A steering system (10) for a vehicle (16) comprises a housing (20) having first and second end portions (32, 34) and an intermediate portion (50). A steering member (66) is supported for axial movement in the housing (20). A piston (100) fixed for movement with the steering member (66) has opposite end faces (104, 106). First and second springs (130, 132) engage the end faces (104, 106) of the piston (100) and bias the piston and thereby the steering member (66) in first and second axial directions toward a straight ahead position. Steering linkage (124, 126) connected with the piston member (100) transmits movement of the piston member (100) to steerable wheels (12, 14) of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle steering system (10) includes a pinion (30) and a steering member (14) movable axially to turn steerable wheels. The steering member (14) has a rack portion (34) in engagement with the pinion (30) and a screw portion (38). An electric motor (130) includes a rotor (134) and a stator (132). The screw thread portion (38) extends axially through the motor (130). A ball nut (116) rotatable with the rotor (134) is associated with the screw thread portion (38) for effecting axial movement of the steering member (14) in response to rotation of the rotor. An electronic control unit (148) for the motor (130) includes a circuit board (150) and a plurality of electronic components mounted on the circuit board. The circuit board (150) has a non-planar configuration and at least partially encircles a portion of the steering member (14) at a location spaced axially from the electric motor (130).

Abstract: A steering system (10) for a vehicle (16) comprises a housing (20) having first and second end portions (32, 34) and an intermediate portion (50). A steering member (66) is supported for axial movement in the housing (20). A piston (100) fixed for movement with the steering member (66) has opposite end faces (104, 106). First and second springs (130, 132) engage the end faces (104, 106) of the piston (100) and bias the piston and thereby the steering member (66) in first and second axial directions toward a straight ahead position. Steering linkage (124, 126) connected with the piston member (100) transmits movement of the piston member (100) to steerable wheels (12, 14) of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle steering system (10) includes a pinion (30) and a steering member (14) movable axially to turn steerable wheels. The steering member (14) has a rack portion (34) in engagement with the pinion (30) and a screw portion (38). An electric motor (130) includes a rotor (134) and a stator (132). The screw thread portion (38) extends axially through the motor (130). A ball nut (116) rotatable with the rotor (134) is associated with the screw thread portion (38) for effecting axial movement of the steering member (14) in response to rotation of the rotor. An electronic control unit (148) for the motor (130) includes a circuit board (150) and a plurality of electronic components mounted on the circuit board. The circuit board (150) has a non-planar configuration and at least partially encircles a portion of the steering member (14) at a location spaced axially from the electric motor (130).