34 replies to this topic

[Pelvisgt]

Model : Mini 1987 with 1275 carb engine (unknown year)





So my mini failed MOT today but only by the Offside steering rack gaiter split.

Now does the steering rack have a gaiter either side and if so would it be best to replace both ?

Going to get the part from MOSS as it is local (2 mins down the road) but they have a few different types:

• 2 boots and 4 metal clips

• 2 boots and plastic ties

• 2 boots and 4 plastic ties

• 2 x single boot, no clips

Anyone know which I would need ?



Is it an easy job as it is booked in to the garage but he said I could have a go myself.

Cheers for any help !

[freshairmini]

I would replace them both seen as they wear the same so you'll only end up replacing the old other one some point down the road.

You'll need the one with 4 plastic ties (I've used these ones). As you have to zip tie both ends of the gaiter to the steering arm and rack. It'll all become apparent when you go to replace it!

[freshairmini]

to get the gaiter on you'll need to unscrew the steering ball joint from the arm then either cut the old one off or slide it off. then slide the new on on.

you may find that you'll need to split the ball joint from the wheel hub in order to unscrew it from the steering arm.

this video gives you an idea of what's involved.

Edited by freshairmini, 19 July 2012 - 01:47 PM.

[Pelvisgt]

Great video buddy !!

When he took out the part that is attached to the hub how will i know how far to screw it back in or does it not matter?

Seems an ok job though :)

[Pelvisgt]

I would replace them both seen as they wear the same so you'll only end up replacing the old other one some point down the road.

You'll need the one with 4 plastic ties (I've used these ones). As you have to zip tie both ends of the gaiter to the steering arm and rack. It'll all become apparent when you go to replace it!

Yeah in the video he used cable ties, will they need to be done up as tight as possible ?

[Pelvisgt]

Also the stuff he is putting on under the gaiter is just normal grease ?

[freshairmini]

yeah normal multi purpose grease.

I would replace them both seen as they wear the same so you'll only end up replacing the old other one some point down the road.

You'll need the one with 4 plastic ties (I've used these ones). As you have to zip tie both ends of the gaiter to the steering arm and rack. It'll all become apparent when you go to replace it!

Yeah in the video he used cable ties, will they need to be done up as tight as possible ?

tight as they go (without breaking them) to make sure they stay on.

Great video buddy !!

When he took out the part that is attached to the hub how will i know how far to screw it back in or does it not matter?

Seems an ok job though :)

two options, count the turns. Or there will be a lock nut, leave that in its original position. it will act as a marker.

[Pelvisgt]

Good stuff, will get the gaiter and some grease and get to it !

[Spud_133]

I doubt you'll be able to get the new gaiter on over the lock nut, do I personally would get some paint and make when the lock nut is, then replace the gaiter, then wind it back on to the mark.

[tiger99]

And then take it to your local garage or tyre dealer and get the tracking reset!

[mattbeddow]

Crud is that an MOT fail?
I best replace mine then as i think both are split (1 certainly is)

[Pelvisgt]

yeah mine is split and its a fail

Yeah ill do the paint thing as they would seem the best idea

[Pelvisgt]

And then take it to your local garage or tyre dealer and get the tracking reset!

Will do, Im getting new alloys soon should i just wait or would that be nothing to do with it ?

[tiger99]

You should get the tracking done right away. Changing wheels has nothing to do with it. But, you might get it done cheaper if you also buy the wheels at the same time. As always, shop around.

[Pelvisgt]

Ah ok bud just thought I would say as it might have been a waste of time.

Would be getting the wheels 2nd hand anyways.