oil type BMW M5 1999 E39 Central Body Electronics ZKE Manual

Servotronic (E38 only)
Purpose of the System
The servotronic steering system is based on a conventional power assisted steering sys-
tem. An additional electro-hydraulic solenoid and oil passageways are added to the con-
ventional worn and roller type steering box. The GM monitors the vehicle’s road speed and
regulates an electro-hydraulic solenoid. The servotronic steering system provides the fol-
lowing:
• A light steering effort at low speeds and while parking.
• Increased steering effort as road speed increases.
The "Direct Hydraulic Reaction" provided by the system allows the frictional forces between
the front wheels and road surface to be transmitted to the driver. This allows the driver to
make a better judgment in regard to the driving conditions.
This principle of direct hydraulic reaction can be used with the servotronic system because
of the spool valves that are already used with the worm and roller steering box.
Refer to ST056 Chassis Dynamics for further “mechanical” details of Servotronic.
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Central Body Electronics ZKE III