5 replies to this topic

[Deathrow]

I'm just getting together a list of the bits I need to put Elliot's pedal box and steering column back in and obviously I had to destroy the shear bolts in order to get them out.

Remembering what a hassle it was got me thinking, are they still worth having? I understand they're fitted as an anti-theft device but do they actually stop anyone these days? Or am I just fitting new ones to have the joy of having to cut them off again at a later date?

[Jamdog]

I got lucky enough that one of the previous owners had replaced the steering column and not sheared the new bolts on reinstalling it! I very carefully tighten the shear bolts up, but only just enough so that they don’t fall out whilst your driving about.

I seriously doubt that any thieves today would carry around the right tools and know how to remove the steering column, and even then they’d have to bring their own steering column and steering wheel to actually be able to turn the wheels!

[lawrence]

Mines never had them, I'm assuming a previous owner removed them. Never felt the need to refit them. Like you say who carries a spare column about!

[Spider]

I don't bother with them.

 

If someone wants the car bad enough to be willing to defeat these bolts then they'll only most likely do damage trying to get around them.

 

Besides, how many thieves do they really stop?   I doubt any would attempt to steal the car by swapping out the column.

[DUF2]

I had a brand new Mini Van for work in the 70's, the shear bolts were still intact and had not been sheared during assembly in the factory!

[Boycie]

Yes, quite often they were fitted 'un' sheared from the factory. Bit of a breakdown of communication between the assembly workers and management I'd imagine.
As said, they're of little use nowadays I suppose, but necessary back when Minis filled ever street in the land. I'd fit them on a concourse restoration (dilemma- do you shear them or fit them complete!?!) but otherwise, normal bolts are fine IMO.