Steering rack tie rods?

[johntom]

Hi
My 400se has just passed it's Mot,however there is an advisory stating that there is play on the knuckle joint where the track rod joins the steering (PAS) rack?
Does anyone know what the 1990 PAS rack is off and are the track/tie rods available?

[peaktorque]

I'm guessing you mean track-rod ends (the bit at the ends of the rack that connect onto the hub)

The rack is a 'Heinz 57' TVR own and uses Ford Cortina MK4/5 TREs. Available on ebay.

[Number 7]

I think the OP means the joint on the inboard end of the trackrod, where it connects to the rack, rather than the outboard end. Unfortunately, I've no idea whether they are available or where.

7.

[peaktorque]

Number 7 said:

I think the OP means the joint on the inboard end of the trackrod, where it connects to the rack, rather than the outboard end. Unfortunately, I've no idea whether they are available or where.

7.

Ahh, yes I see now re-reading it.

Yes, that would be...erm....sorry don't know then!

[djc100]

If it's the later rack, which being a 400 it should be, then the inner track rods are adjustable. Don't ask me how - but I do know 'Ex-Works' took similar play (not MOT failure) out of my old Wedge.

David

[blaineuk]

the track control arms are adjusted by a small plactic washer inserted between the arm and the rack.

[johntom]

Hi
thanks for the reply, are the plastic washers already in place or do I need extra/new ones and any idea where i can get them?

[blaineuk]

johntom said:

Hi
thanks for the reply, are the plastic washers already in place or do I need extra/new ones and any idea where i can get them?

mine had some in place, but have no idea on where to get some from, sorry

[Wedg1e]

The track rod is secured to the rack by a threaded cap. The rod has a ball-end on it (think hip joint) which is supported by a nylon cup which in turn is loaded by a small but stiff spring. With the spring and cup in place, the ball-end is seated and the cap screwed on to the rack. Then the cap is tightened to a certain setting which preloads the spring, causing the rod to be difficult to move. Once correct, the cap is secured by a locking ring. Finally, the joint between cap and ring is drilled and a tapered pin driven in to keep the whole assembly secure (if the cap unscrewed, the track rod would become detached from the rack... somewhat disappointing, one would imagine).
Wear affects the surfaces of ball-end and cap and also the nylon cup. However it's a very long-term effect and is usually only accelerated by split rack gaiters allowing water in and/or lack of lubrication to the joint.
The joint can be dismantled and adjusted: merely drill out the pin, crack the locking ring, tighten the cap, lock the ring and drill a new hole for a new pin.

It's cr*p but you should get the gist...

Edited by Wedg1e on Saturday 28th November 22:18

[blaineuk]

http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GSV1014
there is now a rebuild kit

[Wedg1e]

blaineuk said:

http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GSV1014
there is now a rebuild kit

Fine, but to the best of my knowledge TVR never used the SD1 PAS rack on the Wedges...

[johntom]

Hi
many thanks for your excellent reply. I'll have a go at the weekend and report back.