4 replies to this topic

[Shane 58]

Shane 58
I am currently replacing the steering rack on my 1990 classic Austin mini Mayfair, however the jacking points on my car have perished and therefore I have lifted the car using the front subframe. I have removed the horseshoe bolts form the steering rack there is no wheel assembly attached as I have striped down my engine meaning the last step to removing the steering rack is to pull it out of the subframe... One problem though, the pinion is in the way and I can not manoeuvre the steering arm out. Please help?????

[Broomer]

Are the tower bolts loose enough to allow the subframe to move allowing the rack to slide out?

And silly question have you taken the bolt out the steering column?

[Stevie W]

Hi Shane,

 

This is one of those awkward jobs to carry out on a Mini. The front subframe has to be CAREFULLY lowered to allow enough room to withdraw the steering rack from the car.  This means removing the rear front subframe mounts and the "tower" bolts to allow the subframe to pivot down. You can control the amount you lower it with a stout timber across the 'frame webs near the rear of the subframe legs. 

Please bear in mind, you have the entire weight of the engine and gearbox on the jack when you do this. 

I usually remove the air filter and carb to allow the rear of the engine to move down without hitting anything. You only need an inch or two from memory to allow the steering rack enough room for removal. 

 

Hope this helps,

 

Cheers, Steve.

[nelo36]

Hi Shane
Steve is spot on you need to jack the subframe the an axle stand with a piece of timber to spread the load
Then once your happy with the axle stand drop the the subframe slowly to give yourself approx 2-3 " space
To slide the rack out and replace the same way don't forget the drill bit in the cantering hole in the passenger footwell before you
Tighten the U bolts and get it tracked ASAP or you will scrub tyres I a week because I did gutted new tyres scrapp in. 3 weeks
Cheers lee

[nelo36]

Sorry forgot to put at the start axel stand and wood under footwell