Power steering

Post by **Tonystraveller** » Thu Jul 16, 2009 11:29 pm

Its probably been asked before but has anyone fitted or looked into fitting power steering on a Mog.

The reason being my wife wants a Moggy for herself but has problems with her arms so really needs power steering.

Thanks for any feedback

Tony

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Jul 16, 2009 11:49 pm

I'm sure it's been done - but the normal steering is VERY light if everything is in good condition, and the tyres are properly inflated.

Post by **jonathon** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:18 am

Yes we had electronic powersteering fitted to a traveller. It makes a huge difference to low speed manouvering, especially if medical conditions cause problems.
When we did this mod it was still in its infancy and cost the better part of £1500. However kits are now available for under £1000, and are well worth the spend. Go for kits with manual and auto settings, which adjust the sensitivity at speed, levels.

Post by **8009STEVE** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:42 am

I can recommend a conversion company in Coventry. if you are interested, P,M. me for details

Post by **jonathon** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:49 am

You can let us know on the open forum Steve, unless you work for them

Post by **8009STEVE** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 9:08 am

The company is Jim Doran Hand Controls. They are in Coventry. They are a conversion specialist for the disabled.Both Mary and me have taught people to drive in cars and vans that they have converted. Some of the conversions have been :-

Nissan Micra Handle bar steering, gas and brake (no wheel)

Sprinter van Left arm pull/push for gas and brake Right arm pull/push for steering

Porche boxter Left foot steering

Motorcycle for rider with only left hand (right lower arm/hand amputated).

I don't think power steering will be a problem, but don't know about cost.

Post by **rayofleamington** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 9:09 am

You can let us know on the open forum Steve, unless you work for them

same rules apply to you too Jonathon ;-)

Post by **bmcecosse** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 1:19 pm

I believe some Mini folk have fitted the complete steering column assembly from the Fiat Punto - which has two level electric power assist built in. You could investigate that.

Post by **Tonystraveller** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 4:40 pm

Thanks for the replies, I'm looking more down the DIY / donor car system.

Thanks bmc I'll look into that sounds like a possibility as I still have plenty of contacts on the Mini scene.

Tony

Post by **bmcecosse** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 4:58 pm

Well - when Minis have big fat tyres and lot of castor wound on for traction - the steering can be heavy. But I still think a Minor with 145 tyres on standard rims - inflated to 28/30 psi - and with well lubricated king pins (!) will have very light steering anyway. So - unless it's an actual disability - your wife may manage ok like that.

Post by **twincamman** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 10:41 am

Might also be worth looking at Vauxhall Corsas. I think the 2nd type (the one with the taillights by the back window) had electric power steering. See, I knew they'd be useful for something!
EDIT: The power steering on these is a motor that assists the column, so it should be easily adapted to the Minor. I know the rally boys use them on the Group 4 spec escorts (i.e the serious spec Mk2s)

Post by **jonathon** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 11:59 am

Here is the system that was fitted to our customers traveller. It uses the MGF column which is grafted onto the lower Minor splined fitting. It can offer adjustability for reach and angle.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 2:30 pm

Crikey! But that does look quite-do-able - just need to find a wrecked MGF!

Post by **jonathon** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 2:39 pm

Yep the Corsa columns are now the choice items. The motors must have adequate bracing (sturdy) to eliminate flex and give them something to push away from. The system shown was designed for classic rally cars, Escorts and the like, so is multi adjustable manually or fully automatic.

Post by **Tonystraveller** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 5:07 pm

Thanks again for all the replies, I know someone with an MGF but its not a wreck, yet.

I'll also look into the Corsa system like you said twincamman at last they have come in for something useful.

Tony

Post by **bmcecosse** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 9:16 pm

Don't forget the Punto!

Post by **Tonystraveller** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 11:11 pm

Don't worry bmc I'm looking into every possible way so I won't forget the punto.

Tony