When replacing an energy-absorbing column you need to align the column with
the rack. The manuals specify using an alignment gauge which consists of
two conical caps that fit over the ends of the two shafts in place of the
UJ. I used a piece of stiff wire wrapped round the end of each shaft with
one end brought out past the end of the shaft. Secure the rack to the cross
member, and secure the column in approximately the centre of its up-and-down
and side-to-side travel. By spinning each shaft you can tweak the wire so
the free end rotates at a fixed point in space and doesn't wobble as it
rotates. When you have done this the free end is in line with the centre of
its relevant shaft. Now position the column so that its wire almost touches
the wire on the rack shaft. If you can spin both shafts and the ends of the
wires remain at the same distance from each other at all times, the shafts
are aligned.
For completeness, the manuals describe aligning non-energy-absorbing columns
as securing the column, then the UJ, then checking for gaps between the rack
and the cross-member and fitting shims to suit.
PaulH.
-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Regel <SRegel@dpra.com>
To: mgs@autox.team.net <mgs@autox.team.net>
Date: 21 December 1998 15:35
Subject: Sterring Rack
>Just bought a 76 B and it needs a new steering rack. Is this an easy job?
It
>looks pretty easy with just four mounting bolts. But my concern is lining
up
>the gears again in the steering coupling. It doesn't look complicated and
it
>looks like there is a mark on both gears for reference. I want to buy the
>whole rack assembly from Victoria's catalog instead of just replacing
pieces.
>Any insight anyone? I've had two 63 B's that I did alot of supension work
on,
>but never played with the steering rack. Oh this car was converted to
>electronic ignition and has the Lucas sport coil. Some where I read the
the
>plugs should be gapped at 33 instead of the 22? Any truth to that?
>
>Thanks!
>
>Scott
>
|