24 replies to this topic

[timmy850]

In my experience there’s nothing cheap about a free mini

You may need to remove the brake lines to let the subframe drop down, then also an alignment at the end. There may be a few extra parts to replace “while you’re there” like subframe mounts, tie rod ends etc

[mab01uk]

Remove the steering column first and check the splines in the end of the column, that way you will also be able to see the condition of the splines on the steering rack pinion poking through the floor/bulkhead. If the rack splines look ok you can then just replace the steering column, which is an easier job and you won't need to disturb the steering rack.

Edited by mab01uk, 27 February 2025 - 08:35 AM.

[DClarke1954]

Thanks all.

I will take the column off first and inspect the splined end(s) of the column and rack pinion.  Fingers crossed it is that and an easier fix than dropping the sub-frame etc.etc.

 

I shall report back in due course.

[DClarke1954]

Well, thank you so much you forum folks!

 

I took the column out and it does look like hte failure is in the column socket insofar as the splines are either missing or worn down to next to nothing.

Compared to  the steering rack pinion splines which are all whole, sharp and in good nick.

 

Pictures are below (I hope).

 

The Column's socket, all heavily worn and almost "gone" in some places.

 

The splined pinion:

and the other side:

[Designer]

Hi,

 

To me looking at the spindle some of the splines appear to be worn down more on the outer end than the inner. Could this be an indication that the column was not push far enough on to the spindle

and the clamping bolt did not go through the grove.

 

Paddy

Edited by Designer, 27 February 2025 - 03:32 PM.

[stuart bowes]

well to be fair that is the easier part to replace at least eh

 

hop over to ebay now then I guess and see if you can't find a new/replacement column

[timmy850]

That can happen when a steering column drop bracket is fitted without loosening the u bolts on the rack and letting it rotate to the new position. H

Hopefully you can find a good condition replacement column

[68+86auto]

It does look like the column was pushed on all the way as the splines are worn past the bolt hole. The rack should be loosened during installation. I do up the pinch bolt and then rotate the column while tightening the rack.

 

Repair pieces are available over here but a used column will be much cheaper.

[DClarke1954]

The repair was effected with a 2nd-hand column inner.   All good now.  Thanks all.

Car went on to get an MOT pass.

[coopertaz]

common issue especially with incorrect fitting of a drop bracket, and been behind a mini which ended up on it's roof after this failure, the old columns the bolt would only go through the pinch if it was lined up but on newer racks the slot goes around the rack spline so easier to get the bolt in but if the spline fails then so does the steering at least on the other racks the bolt prevents the steering going altogether. the racks on my cars now have the older style spling after seeing the above accident.

Edited by coopertaz, 20 March 2025 - 01:02 PM.