Caster
Caster refers to the angle of the steering pivot point in a vehicle, as seen from the side. It is a critical aspect of vehicle dynamics and suspension design, affecting the handling and stability of the vehicle.
Definition[edit | edit source]
Caster is the angle between the vertical axis of the steering system of a vehicle and the axis of the wheels, measured in the longitudinal direction. It is typically expressed in degrees. A positive caster angle means that the steering axis tilts towards the rear of the vehicle, while a negative caster angle means it tilts towards the front.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of caster is to provide stability to the vehicle. A positive caster angle helps the wheels return to a straight-ahead position after a turn, enhancing straight-line stability. This is particularly important for high-speed driving, as it helps maintain control and reduces the effort required to keep the vehicle on a straight path.
Types of Caster[edit | edit source]
- Positive Caster: This is when the top of the steering axis is tilted towards the rear of the vehicle. It improves straight-line stability and steering feel but can make the steering heavier.
- Negative Caster: This is when the top of the steering axis is tilted towards the front of the vehicle. It is rarely used in modern vehicles as it can make the vehicle unstable at high speeds.
Applications[edit | edit source]
Caster is a crucial parameter in various types of vehicles, including:
Adjustment[edit | edit source]
Caster can be adjusted in many vehicles to optimize handling characteristics. This is often done during wheel alignment procedures. The ideal caster angle can vary depending on the type of vehicle and its intended use.
Related Concepts[edit | edit source]
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
 | This automobile-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Kondreddy Naveen, Prab R. Tumpati, MD
