7 replies to this topic

[Toran]

Hi, I've just ordered a new steering column as the splines on the old one have worn. When fitting the new column are the splines on the steering rack end normally greased or fitted as it is?

 

Old steering column splines:

 

I think the old column had just rusted after 30+ years as I'm fairly sure the rack and column hasn't been off the car since the factory, and no drop bracket had been fitted. Interestingly the splines on the steering rack still look good and well defined however.

 

Many Thanks

[nicklouse]

There is no need for lube as it does not move. But some anti seize might be an idea.

[Toran]

There is no need for lube as it does not move. But some anti seize might be an idea.

Anti seize, that sounds a good way to go. Thanks for your response.

[Spider]

They are normally fitted up dry, but I like to give them a lick of grease (in lieu of anti-seize).

Just be sure to align the rack to your column when fitting it.

[Tornado99]

Agree on something to protect from rust.
Be sure the clamping bolt has no distortions, notching and be sure the nut is a nyloc type or use locktite or both. Mine had a bend and notch where it passed the coloumn and this lead to the splines distorting. I replaced the column and put a grade 8 zinc plated, shouldered bolt in there and got it tighter than spec.

[Toran]

Thanks for the replies. The new column arrived today along with a new pinch bolt, all looks good. I have a nyloc nut and loctite ready to go as well, and anti-seize for the splines.

 

Will ensure its aligned to the rack, then can finally tighten the rack U bolts again and tick off another part of the restoration. Sounds like a job for tomorrow evening.

 

Many Thanks

 

[coopertaz]

while off check rack, later ones had groove all way round so as long as column far enough on bolt can be fitted so easier to assemble, older ones had grove in only one place. have seen later one when splines have failed and car went off road with no steering, luckily all occupants where ok after car ended up on roof. changed racks on both of mine after witnessing this so if splies fail still some steering to bring car to stop. Just advise

[Toran]

while off check rack, later ones had groove all way round so as long as column far enough on bolt can be fitted so easier to assemble, older ones had grove in only one place. have seen later one when splines have failed and car went off road with no steering, luckily all occupants where ok after car ended up on roof. changed racks on both of mine after witnessing this so if splies fail still some steering to bring car to stop. Just advise

Have seen this discussed in another thread, the steering racks with the groove all the way round really does seem a bad design. Thankfully mine has the groove only in one place and good splines so I'm happy with the rack.

 

Appreciate you mentioning this however.