The Dangers of Dry Steering: Why You Should Avoid It
Dry steering, the act of turning the steering wheel without moving the car, can seem like a negligible action. However, it comes with a significant risk of damaging crucial components of your vehicle. In this article, we discuss the mechanics behind dry steering, its detrimental effects, and why it's best to avoid this practice.
Understanding Dry Steering Mechanics
On a car without power steering, the steering wheel is directly connected to the steering mechanism. Turning the steering wheel without the vehicle moving places intense strain on the steering components, tires, and tire mounts. This strain can cause premature wear and tear, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Effects on Tires and Steering Components
When the car is stationary and the steering wheel is turned, the tires and steering components are subjected to friction. This can damage the tires by scrubbing off the protective rubber, significantly reducing their lifespan. Additionally, the steering rack, track rod joints, and power steering pump are all put under unnecessary stress. Even in cars with power steering, the act of turning the wheels without moving the vehicle still exerts strain on the steering components, albeit less than in manual steering setups.
Practical Examples
Consider a test we often conduct in car diagnostic sessions: spinning the steering wheel as fast as possible. This is done to check the capacity of the power steering system. While it may not seem like a significant issue, the strain is quite notable in vehicles with manual steering. A well-trained driver is taught to avoid dry steering even when the car is moving at very low speeds, as it minimizes the effort required. Turning a steering wheel on a stationary 3-ton truck without power steering is nearly impossible, highlighting the significant strain involved.
Engineers and Warranty Concerns
While some might argue that engineers would address issues related to dry steering, the reality is that it often comes down to cost and warranty repairs. Engaging the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to relieve brake pressure to one wheel and electronic steering functions that could prohibit such actions may be viable, but they add to the overall cost. Manufacturers might not address this issue if it doesn't cost them money in warranty claims.
Minimal Alternatives
A more gentle option for dry steering is to perform a brake torque on a rear-wheel drive car equipped with a posi rear end. By getting the rear tires to spin, you allow the rear end to slide, causing minimal stress on the front end components. The front tires remain stationary while the rear end moves, reducing the overall wear on the steering components.
Conclusion
While dry steering might seem like a minor issue, it can have significant impacts on your vehicle's performance and longevity. It is best to avoid this practice to minimize unnecessary strain on your tires and steering components. By ensuring your car is in motion or using alternative methods that minimize strain, you can keep your vehicle in better condition over the long term.