Steering U-Joint alignment

[huzilulu]

I am about to put in the steering column, and have read on build sites to make sure the UJ's are aligned correctly - do you guys mostly do this by sight, or is there a better/more accurate method to get them aligned?

Thanks

[barriejames]

Did mine visually but they still just bound and required some minor file work on the joints before they would clear and give smooth rotation without binding

[UltimaCH]

As Barrie says get them aligned and where the touch use a small file to remove the excess metal. Usually a mm will be sufficient.
Don't forget to polish with very fine sand paper the parts of the shaft that align with the chassis supports. Also a bit of sanding at the end of the shaft that meets the steering rack will simplify assembly and disassembly later.

[huzilulu]

Thanks guys

[Storer]

Wire wool is also your friend for this type of 'polishing'.


Paul

[ROWDYRENAULT]

Where the steering shaft goes thru the bulkhead is one point of hot air intrusion into the cabin. Best solved with a split rubber seal I think Summit sells them here in the states. Lee