Collapsible Steering Columns: Description

The four basic types of collapsible steering columns are as follows  :

Type 1  - A steering column unit consisting of, a jacket with a collapsible mesh section.

Type 2  - A steering column unit consisting of, a jacket with a collapsible bellows (accordian) section.

Type 3  - A steering column unit comprising of, an outer jacket, comprised of two tubes of different diameters joined together by two rows of ball bearings, which are pressed into position.

Type 4  - A corrugated cylinder fastened to steering wheel between wheel and bearing housing.

Under head-on collision conditions these steering columns are designed to telescope at a controlled rate. In addition, if the driver is thrown forward into steering wheel, the column can telescope further at the same controlled rate. Incorporated into any one of the above mentioned columns, is a two piece telescoping transmission gearshift tube interconnected by plastic inserts and shear pins. A two piece telescoping steering shaft with upper and lower sections connected by plastic collars and pins. A mounting bracket connecting steering column and instrument panel allows column to slide forward but blocks its rearward movement towards driver. On some models a collapsible corrugated cylinder or "can assembly" is placed between the steering wheel and the bearing housing to provide for impact absorbtion.