Replacing Steering Rack

[bobinyeovil]

Hi

I need to replace the steering rack for the MOT on my 1972 Taverller because of play in the ball-housing. I've looked at the Haynes Manual and by reading the book it seems a simple task. Could you let me know if this is so? ( a step by step guide would help!)

Do I just need to order a new rack?

thanks

Bob

[Alec]

Hello Bob,
probably the hardest part is splitting the track rod ends from the steering arms, what tools do you have?
The rest is pretty much nuts and bolts. Disconnect the track rod ends, unbolt the steering column clamp bolt and remove the bolt. Undo the two sets of clamp bolt within the front footwell, (1\4" BSF from memeory? so you need Whitworth tools.)
Remove the clamps then remove the steering rack.
Points to remember, centre the steering, measure the ends of the track rod ends to a reference point so as to refit them close to the original setting, but you will still need the tracking to be set.
Yes, you wil need a new rack ready to refit.

Alec

[bobinyeovil]

Thanks for your help

Bob

[bmcecosse]

You can of course just take up the play in the old ball housings once the rack is off - it's not rocket science. It may even be possible to do so on the car - one side at a time - has anyone done this on a Minor ?

[bobinyeovil]

Hi

I replaced my rack today - it all went well. I used a ball joint remover (£6.00) to split the joints. I needed another person to line up the bots from inside the car when refitting.

thanks

Bob

[bmcecosse]

Yep - ball joint splitter is worth it's weight in gold for both Minor and Mini work !