In this paper, in order to analyze dynamic characteristics of an automobile steering system consisting of many components, natural frequencies and transfer functions of each component and the total system are found on a FFT analyzer by experiments. Then, the data are transmitted to a commercial package program, CADA-PC. By analyzing the data, the mode shape of each natural frequency and damping values are obtained. Also, the function of a rubber coupling in column and telescoping effects on system are considered. C.A.E commercial programs are used to compare with the results of experiments. For the finite element modeling, I-DEAS is used. Data processing and post processing are operated on NASTRAN and XL, respectively. The ball-bearing and the linkage of shaft with column are modeled by spring element. Stiffness is modified from the results of experiments. The results of those show close agreement. In the mode shape of total system, wheel mode is dominant at lower frequency, while the column mode is main mode at higher. The role of rubber coupling in vibration isolation is clear on mode shape. Telescoping function makes natural frequency of column changed.
