The lower column section connecting to the steering rack pinion.
Transmits torque from the universal joint into the rack.
No part-specific design process is documented. The Steering subsystem design process applies: 1. Kinematics sets steering geometry, Ackermann targets and rack travel. 2. Size the column and shafts for torsional stiffness and for the bearing housing that supports them. 3. Calculate static steering force from the tire and geometry, and check it against anthropometric limits. 4. Design the wheel shell around the button and switch layout and the dash sightline; prototype grips and take driver feedback. 5. Validate steering effort and Ackermann on track, using the alternate tie rod mounts to sweep setups.
Steel.
Fault Vault, CR25, Design, Potential Failure. Clearance between the OD of the rack output shaft and the ID of the column was not accounted for, leaving a fit loose enough to let the column wiggle laterally and slide fore and aft. 3D printed sleeves were a trackside mitigation. The recorded fix is a thicker bottom column tube with the ID lathed to fit, plus the centre support bearing added on CR26E.
Nothing in CrimsonStorage covers these yet.