Power steering rack on 2009

[karolko]

So I’ve been reading about the corvettes and the updated steering try received in 2009 to a variable rack and pinion.

Apparently the XLR did not get the VES steering like the corvettes did, but I’m not certain.

Keeping on the same topic, in 2008 GM tightened up their tolerances for the rack and pinion, so I’m wondering if anyone can confirm or deny if the XLR got this treatment or not

 

[mickeytee]

The xlr actually had tge better rack. The rack and pinion gears where machined for a smother operation.on the xkr while the corvette was broached which is not as smoth but quicker and cheaper to make. I dont know whst you are reading but all xlr have the variable assist steering. Ive not been able to confirm what change the 09 rack got that gave it a different part number. Sometimes it can be just the supplier change or a simple change in design or a completely new unit. I think it was just a change to the tie rods

 

[karolko]

can you shed some more light on this: I'll send you the link from the corvetteforum which described the changes to the racks over the years.

Read Post #2. Very informative.

Improved steering in newer C6 (09+) - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette Forum Discussion

C6 Corvette General Discussion - Improved steering in newer C6 (09+) - I believe it's the ratio in the rack is improved for more response? Anyone know exactly what they did and what parts can be upgraded? I know I drove a 2013 and especially at parking lot driving speed it felt a lot better.

www.corvetteforum.com

 

[mickeytee]

I dont work on. corvettes. they changed to electric assist somewhere in production. Thats a motor that turns the steering shaft. Xlr have a fluid pump. All years . same pump except for the v.
The electric magnets in the rack are controlled by the computer. At low speeds the system is wide open. full assist. At 40 or so it bypasses. You have manual steering. At 60-70 it reverses flow so there is resistance. People can put seals in the rack if its leaking. But the magnets and controls are not removable. If they work but just leak out the electric wiring it can be repaired. If the assist is not working properly ive not found anyone that can repair them. Most rebuilt ones are just new seals and may be a boot and tie rod. Tge one guy that repairs them that i spoke with said the rack gear is easily
To identify as i said. Its machined for smoothness of operation unlike the corvette because it was made for a cadillac.

You may be Confusing variable assist which our cars have and variable ratio which that article spoke about. I dont know what changes 09 got but the tolorences on the xlr where closer than the vette so maybe the vette got the xlr specs.

 

[karolko]

this is very interesting to hear. Still a little confused about how the rack operates, but it sounds like the magnets act as a valve are redirect or restrict fluid flow within the rack depending on speed. Is that correct? Do the XLR's use a special power steering fluid, or the same generic fluid as everyone other GM car?