steering column to rack connection?

In message , SHC writes

This direct coupling is exactly how it is on the original Mini. It is very important that you loosen the rack clamp bolts before you lower the steering column on a Mini, to allow the rack to rotate so that the column is exactly in line with the splined pinion. (Then tighten them up again afterwards of course!)

The lack of a lower UJ means that there is absolutely no scope for any side-to-side movement of the steering wheel, so I suggest you check that in your kit-car that the position of the wheel does allow for everything to line up properly.

Thanks Chris,

I've slackened off the two bolts at the pinch block and I can tell that there is some mis-alignment. I understand what you say about rotating the rack, but I think I'm a little out sideways too and there isn't an easy way to move things across.

Anyone know if there is a UJ that will fit the spline of the Mini rack?

If you fit a UJ you will probably need to improve the Mini bottom column bearing. We found a uj to fit, I *think* it was from a Vauxhall, but it was some years ago and the old memory don't work too well.

(We fitted 2 UJs and a Vauxhall adjustable steering wheel assembly, but it was quite a big job. In a GTM btw.)

I'm reasonably certain that a Rover SD1 universal would fit between Mini rack and steering column. However, it's about 2 inches long.

Thanks for that,

I took a trip to the local scrappy and no SD1s to be seen. On the joint at the rack on a Ford Siera there's a simple round rubber disk. I think it's called a rag joint? The Ford one seems to be riveted together - and I'm not sure if the hole spacing is right for me. I'm thinking I could make my own from a piece of tyre wall.

The SD1 has one of those between rack and column, then a universal (hardy spicer) further up. I'd say the rubber is to take up slight tolerances, and the universal to allow the wheel to adjust up and down.

But IIRC, those rubber types have spring steel internals.

OK I think it's definitely a rag joint I need, and I dont need up and down - just a slight misalignment. I found this:

Cheers

I've just taken one off a MK1 Escort rack that you can have for the cost of the postage if you want. It's not pretty but looks sound. I'll take some measurments this evening if you like.

Thanks Willy. I just ordered a rubber disk from the local Suzuki dealer, but they couldn't say when it would arrive or what the spacing of the holes is.

If you could check whether your holes or your disk are 50mm apart (measured through the centre of the circle) it would be a big help. If the spacing is right I would like to have it.

Cheers,

Matt B

OK, I'll measure it this evening and let you know tomorrow.

Willy - thanks, but Suzuki came good. It fits perfectly and the wheel is just 10mm closer to the driver. I really appreciated your offer.

If anyone else runs into this problem the part number is 48251-52000. You need 4 x sleeves to go over your 8mm bolts, but I just cut some from some 10mm OD (8mm ID) steel tube from B&Q.

Thanks to all for the help and suggestions.

No worries, glad you have it sorted. I hate throwing away anything that might possibly have a use. Which reminds me, BMW 3 Series have a well made universal joint at the bottom of the steering column. I have one on the shelf in case I can find a use for it. It's rather long overall though, so retrofitting it to most cars would need the steering column shortening which would lose the splined end.

Hello mate,

I have one of these beasties and have just completed my second restoration as i have had it for 20 years now (!) I know my minis well and having restored the car twice know the buggy inside out too. Some areas of the car are not as good as the original donor, but generally the kit was well made with good workarounds for the lack of steel body. Email me pics of your steering setup if you want and i will forward ones of my setup for comparison if you like. I am interested in finding out about any of these that are left as i thnk there were only 90 ever made and at least 60 went to Holland. If you want any more info, get in touch. All the best - Nick

x-- 100 Proof News -

Although I don't know of any Siva cars surviving, around 35 years ago, I had a test drive in the prototype beach buggy fitted with a Cooper S engine, courtesy of Mick Saunders who built all of the moulds and was one of the two original owners of Siva.

The words 'Shovel, a, shiny, off, like, s*it ' rearranged into an appropriate order spring to mind rethinking the ride (and there were 4 of us in the car).

Richard See

Hi Nick,

I'm glad to hear you've kept yours so long. Mine shows 12 previous owners!

My reply to address is valid so please drop me a line. Would love to swap pics and info. Here's a couple of links for stuff I found so far.

Cheers,

Matt