TVR 350i Steering Rack

[MikeEngland]

Hi looking for some help to identify a replacement manual steering rack for my 1984 350i

Just failed the MOT on steering free play and trying to replace the rack. Consensus seems to be a Ford Cortina MK 4-5 on similar threads

Can anyone confirm, or know if these universal racks will fit?

Cheers
Mike

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Brand-New-Ford-Cortina-M...

[briantvr350i]

Morning Mike,

I wouldn't waste time looking for a replacement if I were you...

My 350i manual rack was diagnosed worn at MOT time last year. But I'd already collected enough original parts (PAS rack, steering link, PAS pump and PAS bracket) in 20 years of wedge ownership to enable a conversion to PAS.

Kiley - Clinton in Birmingham refurbished my PAS rack for £125.00 + courier back + VAT, they should be able to do a refurb on your original rack without a problem.

www.steering-racks.co.uk

While you've got the rack out, replacing the rubber mounts with poly bushes is probably a good idea as well.

Suggest you get the rack out and either take it to Birmingham yourself or courier it there. You may be able to find somwehere local to you who can do a refurb of your rack. But KC, was recommended on here and I have no problem recommending their work.

Regards,

Brian
and a Red 350i (now with PAS!)

[mrzigazaga]

Definitely a good decision to refurbish the existing rack as said..I have used "Power steering services" and have recommended them to others and have had no probs..KC sounds good as well...
You might as well change the ARB bushes and drop-link bushes, And while you are at it check the play in the upper and lower ball joints..Maybe also check front wheel bearings as they are a 5 min job to check and adjust..These are all things that are relatively cheap to fix...Unless you take to "Filmstars TVR garage services limited"...It sounds worst than it is but at the end of the day its gutting if you get the rack done and the the car fails on a bush or ball joint!...Luckily i have an understanding MOT inspector who knows if he spots ANYTHING then i WILL get it done ASAP.....But not everyone is so understanding....Cheers...Ziga

[MikeEngland]

Brian / Ziga - thanks for the advice, much appreciated, I'm looking into the suggestions to getting the old rack refurbished

Any tips on sourcing the bushes for the ARB and drop-linkages, if they are easy to source i might look into doing them as well. Fairly new to the hazards of sourcing parts for the wedges and finding it somewhat of a minefield!

Cheers
Nike

[mrzigazaga]

Hi mate...There are a few places to get them from..RT racing...ML performance..Superflex..Powerflex...
They are Cortina mk4-5...
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&...
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&...
One point though if you change the control link arm bushes then you will probably not be able to find the large collared washers but most bushes have a lip on them...

Some bits are a nightmare to find but the majority are easy to find.

Also if you are having the rack referred then perhaps change the mounting bushes as well...its not too painful in the price department..Wait till the rear suspension needs doing...
Cheers...Ziga

[350zwelgje]

Replaced mine (manual) a couple of years ago with standard cortina mk4. Inexpensive and easy to replace.
Wedge is built in 1986 and has an A-frame rear suspension.

Think going from manual to powersteering, I would consider going for electric power assistance and not going hydraulic.
No need for powersteering yet, but would come in very handy when drifting


Rob

[Transmitter Man]

Ford Mexico / RS2000 c/r rack.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mk1-mk2-Escort-Rs2000-Me...

Phil
420 SEAC

[V8 Fettler]

Do any Wedgers maintain the manual rack? I can't see any obvious lubrication points.

[350zwelgje]

Don't think maintenance is needed on manual racks.
Not even possible, only refurbishment if too much play.
Just keep the rubber boots ok and it will last for a very long time.
When I replace rubber boots, renew as much grease as possible. That is all.

Rob

[mrzigazaga]

A nice dollop of grease always goes down well on the steering column UJ's as well...