Thunderbird V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Steering Angle Sensor: Description and Operation
An optical steering sensor (photo-cell), mounted on the steering column, is used to establish the rate of the steering wheel rotation.
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When the steering wheel rotation rate reaches 15 rpm, the output current to the power steering control valve actuator begins to reduce, providing
additional power steering assist.
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Once the steering wheel rotation rate reaches 100 rpm, the output current to the power steering control valve actuator reaches zero and full power
steering assist is provided.
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After the steering wheel rotation rate drops below 15 rpm, the output current returns to the amount of current regulated by the vehicle speed
sensor input within one second.