MDA Ackermann Steering Mechanism

The Ackermann Steering Mechanism, "MDA", is a bench-mounted unit designed to determine the lead angle of a steering trapezoid in an Ackermann steering mechanism, the disadvantages of incorrectly adjusted track rods and the influence of the track rod length.

This unit consists of a complete Ackermann linkage model mounted on a flat frame. The symmetrical linkage system consists of two track rods and an intermediate steering rod.

Each track rod is coupled to a lever and a pivot. These pivots simulate the point where each wheel of a car is connected to. The whole system can turn from left to right by hand. There are two rotating indicators, attached to the pivots, which indicate the steering angle on graduated discs.

The linkage system is fully adjustable so that Ackermann angles can be varied. The length of the track rods may be modified to demonstrate the effect of misalignment or damage of the steering.