Steering system force path Select the correct order in which the driver’s effort at the steering wheel is transmitted to turn the front wheels.

Introduction / Context:
Understanding the order of steering components helps in diagnosing play, vibration, and alignment issues. The steering system translates driver torque into a controlled change in wheel toe angles.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Conventional rack-and-pinion or recirculating-ball system.
• Basic links: steering wheel, steering shaft (column), gearbox (rack-and-pinion or gear box), tie rods, steering knuckles, wheels.

Concept / Approach:
The driver applies torque at the steering wheel. The steering shaft conveys this to the gearbox, which translates or amplifies motion. Output links and tie rods transmit linear motion to the steering arms on the knuckles, pivoting the wheels about kingpin/ball joints.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Start at the steering wheel.Mechanical link: steering shaft to gearbox.Gearbox output creates linear motion or angular motion at a pitman arm/rack.Tie rods carry this motion to steering knuckles.Knuckles rotate the front wheels to a new steer angle.

Verification / Alternative check:
With the vehicle raised, rocking the steering wheel reveals the same order of motion through components.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option a misorders gearbox and shaft.

Option c incorrectly places knuckles before tie rods.

Option d begins with tie rods, which cannot be driven directly by the wheel.

Option e introduces “rack housing” before the shaft, which is incorrect.

Common Pitfalls:
Misattributing free play to alignment when it is actually within the steering column joints or rack inner tie-rod ends; always check the sequence for looseness.

Final Answer:
steering wheel → steering shaft → steering gearbox → tie rod → steering knuckle → front wheels