Power steering

[southerly95]

I can’t drive our 65 convertible atm due to arthritis in both shoulders and would really appreciate power steering.

So when I received an email from Holdens advertising same I looked through the options and couldn’t find one for a MM. So I emailed them a few days ago but still not received a reply. Has anyone ever visited same? Eg late fiestas etc use them.
See their link: https://www.holden.co.uk/c/hardware/pow ... ng_/page/1
Cheers John

[southerly95]

I’m meant fitted not visited!

[Steve Phillips]

Hi
Can't help regards anything to do with Holden, but we are currently developing an electric power steering conversion for one of our customers Minors, once it's done we will be able to supply it as a complete fit yourself kit or fit it for you.
Let me know if I can help,
Steve

[southerly95]

Sounds good to me, what’s the approx price range? Holders vary from £1900 to £3500 depending if it’s an Aston or MGB etc.
My email: southerly95@icloud.com
Thanks, John

[Steve Phillips]

Hi

At the moment we are working through the final stage of development to prove it will be safe and reliable, so I don't have any costs right now, but I'll keep you updated as soon as we have it up and working so I can give you an accurate cost.

Steve

[southerly95]

Thanks Steve

[Steve Phillips]

Hi John

I've sent you an email regards your power steering enquiry,

We have now finished developing our power steering conversion for any year / model of Minor.

Regards

Steve

[KeithL]

Steve,

I would be interested as well for our 1959 Traveller. The heavy steering is the one thing Jayne doesn't like about driving the Morris these days.

[les]

Before reading this thread I wouldn’t have believed the Minor needed power steering and I wouldn’t have believed the price either!

[MidnightMechanic]

Hey John, sorry to hear about the arthritis trouble, that can be a real pain. When it comes to adding power steering to your 65 convertible, reaching out directly to Holdens is a good move. If you haven't heard back from them yet, maybe give them a follow-up call or visit their shop if possible. In the meantime, you can also explore other reputable auto shops or mechanics in your area that specialize in classic car modifications. They might have some options or recommendations for adding power steering to your ride. Best of luck getting back on the road pain-free!

[myoldjalopy]

Before reading this thread I wouldn’t have believed the Minor needed power steering and I wouldn’t have believed the price either!

Indeed, the Minor was renowned for the lightness and precision of its steering. Initial reviews from 'The Autocar' praised its "steering which is light, and quick and accurate". Having said that, I do appreciate southerly95's desire to continue driving his Minor in defiance of arthritis issues.

[les]

Well of course its not my money being spent but it might be worth getting the steering geometry, tracking etc checked out, even tyre pressures, before doing something drastic.

[Tootall]

Electrically-assisted steering columns from Vauxhall Corsas are commonly used for adding power assistance to a Minor.

It's not plug & play but apparently pretty straightforward to do.

There will be plenty of information regarding this mod online and even if you pay a competent mechanic to fit the parts, you'll still pay far less than a Holden's kit would cost.

[southerly95]

Hi Steve, I emailed you awhile back but can’t find a reply. I was asking about wiring plan and battery capacity, thanks, John

[Steve Phillips]

Hi John

I did reply on the 17th September but I'll re send the information tomorrow.

Steve

[southerly95]

Thanks Steve, understood, any ideas when the steering might be available? Regards, John

[Steve Phillips]

Hi John

We are just finalising the mounting brackets, although our original two setups were safe and strong they were not pretty, prototypes often aren't,

So we are having laser cut mounts cut which will give us strength safety and a perfect fit, I'll keep you posted by email as soon as I have an update,

Steve

[amberbs]

i cant see the link

[Steve Phillips]

Hi
To abide by the rules of the forum company names / links are not posted, but I have sent you a pm with some contact details on.

Steve

[svenedin]

Before reading this thread I wouldn’t have believed the Minor needed power steering and I wouldn’t have believed the price either!

Once the car is moving I have no issues with the steering but at very low speeds such as when parking I do find it rather hard work. It is quite a shock to go from a modern power assisted steering car to the Morris. Many years ago I drove my Morris several hundred miles with a broken hand. That was an experience I would not like to repeat! I can see why power steering might be needed for some people.

Stephen