Patent ID: 6026858
Filing Date: 2000-02-22
Classification: B62D,Y10T

Abstract:
A power steering assembly for use in turning steerable vehicle wheels, said power steering assembly comprising:a valve core having oppositely disposed first and second end portions;a valve sleeve encircling said valve core, said valve core and said valve sleeve having surfaces which cooperate to direct flow of power steering fluid during relative rotation between said valve core and said valve sleeve; anda bearing assembly disposed between said valve core and said valve sleeve at a location adjacent to said first end portion of said valve core, said bearing assembly includes an annular plurality of bearing elements which engage said valve sleeve and said valve core and are rotatable relative to said valve sleeve and said valve core, said annular plurality of bearing elements transmitting sidewise loads between said valve sleeve and said valve core;said second end portion of said valve core having a bearing surface, said bearing surface being slidable along an inner surface area on said valve sleeve to transmit a sidewise load during relative rotation between said valve core and said valve sleeve.