In traditional manual golf cart steering systems, the steering gear box is the mechanical torque amplifier. It houses a worm gear (connected to the steering column) and a sector gear (connected to the pitman arm). As you turn the wheel, these gears mesh to multiply your steering force and change the direction of motion. Internal wear in these gears or their bearings creates lash (slop), resulting in:
Excessive steering wheel free play before the wheels respond.
Vague, imprecise handling and a tendency to wander.
Uneven or accelerated tire wear due to inconsistent toe alignment.
