2 replies to this topic

[Stu1961]

Hi everyone I have just removed my steering rack for overhaul/replacement. Have had a good read of this topic http://www.theminifo...l-uk-type-mkii/  my rack only seems to differ in one way (As far as I can tell) and that is how the main nut is staked to the lock nuts on the tie rod inner ball joints.  Rather than actually staking the two together using a punch the joint between the main nut and lock nut is drilled and as the Haynes manual states a ‘Grooved pin’ is inserted then the hole is peened over to retain the pin. Now as far as I can tell these grooved pins are no longer available.

 

Please bare in mind I have no issue with getting a replacement rack if any of the faults Moke talks of in his thread are found, I just have an inquiring mind as to how these things work and how they are put together.  As these grooved pins appear not to be available now, does anyone know what they were/are made from, was thinking of using 5/32” silver steel rod as an alternative. It also states in the Haynes manual these nuts can be re-drilled and staked up to three times maximum before the rack must be replaced.  Opinions would be most welcome, especially from anyone who has done the job.

 

Many thanks in advance.         

 

 

[Spider]

Thanks for raising this Stu.

 

I've just had a look in the later Rover Manual and it also refers to the 'Grooved Pin' and the advice is to drill it out (5/32" dia x 5/32" deep).

 

As it can be drilled so easily, it's clearly a soft steel pin. I don't see an issue with using a Roll Pin here as it appears the idea of it being a Grooved Pin is for self retention.

 

I'm not suggesting anyone follow my advice here - I'm strictly speaking for myself - I'd be quite happy to lock the nuts together and use loctite, no staking or pinning. The Racks in my own cars are done this way and if you extend this thinking, there's no supplementary means of locking the Track Rod End to the Rod End other than with a lock nut.

[Stu1961]

Thanks for the reply Chris,

 

Really needed to be sure what I was doing with this before carrying on on such a safety critical item, you have answered all my concerns. Never thought about the pin only needing to be a soft material obviously for removal purposes and also for future re drilling if ever needed, makes good sense.