Steering system, original and upgrades for the TVR Classic.

[Hansoplast]

I have seen several upgrades in this forum of the steering system for our beloved classic.
I haved searched this forum and found some issues but not an complete answer. ( quick steering rack / alu fixing of the rack / steering clamp / aso)

In my project I am heading for fixing the steering column and I must say that "coat hanger" under the dash is not very purposeful.
I have not driven the car and not getting in and out of the car, but I do not believe that this fixing point is sturdy.

In the Triumph TR250 the same steering column(and system) is used and fixed with an steel bracket and 3 steel bracings to the bulkhead.
In the Vixen it is less.
When grabbing the wheel while getting in and out of the car the whole dash is moving I presume.
And the steering column is not in a 90 degree angle to the bulkhead so the driver sits skewed. Or am I wrong in this.

So the question is do you (out there)have any pictures with better ideas.
I have seen pictures mainly from Grantura racers or fast cars that carry some solutions. But without the inside information.

Thanks.
Hans

[ephemera]

You are right, this is a common issue in the cars I have seen. The canted steering wheel is personal I guess, I like the quirky nature, it is so typical of this type of TVR, and I don't feel any negative effects due to it, but that is personal. the upside is you have a direct connection to the steering rack instead of using joints, but I guess if you want a flat steering wheel position you can add a joint.
The experts have solutions to the steering rack clamping issue.
The play in the steering wheel shaft is something I tried to solve in the following manner, I think the pictures speak for themselves. But of course there are many ways. Good luck!

[ephemera]

(no worry, the bolts and washers will be replaced)

[RCK974X]

That spreader plate idea is probably as good as it gets. Looks good to me !

[madsvlund]

I'm in the process of upgrading my steering setup. currently I have a Bmw rack with a 3,7 lock to lock ratio, and the original Triumph column.

Several issues to solve, the rack bushes is worn out giving radial play in the steering wheel, u joint or something else make the wheel "sticky" on the straight position. Steering is way too slow with a couple of spin's as a result.

So the plan is to add a steering quickener 1,5:1 ratio, and fit is as close as possible to the steering wheel, so the bearings in the quickner can replace the upper bush. Lover bush will be removed and the bottom end of the column will be controlled with the rose joint. Original apperance will be keept.

On top will I increase the power steering pressure and flow to keep the low speed drivability, high speed can be a pain, but I've never been on +120 mph anyway, and street speed is neder above 100mhp.

Pictures will follow

[Hansoplast]

Beste Ephemera,

I looked closely to your pics to understand what you did.
Possibly wrong but I understand the following.
- you shortened the steering tube up to the new bracket
- the steering column is supported by bush inside the steering tube
- and supported by the new bracket
- the steering tube is supported (as original) in the new (and stronger) fire wall support

And does this combination of 2 different support systems work well?

I had more in mind to support the steering tube in a better way or leave the tube away and support the steering column.
See pics with some details from of this forum.
Hans

[ephemera]

Hi Hans, if you PM me you can have a look ;-)