Subaru 2002 Impreza Service Manual page 347

E
TILT STEERING COLUMN
Power Assisted System (Power Steering)
B: ENERGY-ABSORBING MECHANISM
0
To absorb the backward movement energy generated in the engine in the event of a frontal colli-
sion, a cylindrical fitting type steering column pipe has been adopted. When an impact load ex-
ceeding a certain level is applied to the steering column, the shaft moves in the jacket. Since the
shaft is press-fitted in the jacket, friction generated between them during the above-mentioned
movement absorbs impact. The column bending load is supported by the fittings.
0
Another measure to alleviate impact on the driver in the event of a collision is the wire which is
located between the tilt pin and the distance plate attached to the steering support beam. When
a large impact load is applied to the steering column, the wire is deformed progressively. The im-
pact energy is absorbed during this process.
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(A) Before absorption of impact energy
(B) After absorption of impact energy
NF0447
(1)
Tilt pin
(2)
Wire
(3) Distance plate
(4)
Jacket
(5) Shaft
PS-3