New Build - Steering Bush

[jturrell]

I'm installing the steering in my R400D kit. The instructions say to "Slide the upper steering bush onto the column and into the dash tube". A couple of questions . . . the steering bush is a big black rubber job with a white plastic interior lining. I don't see any way this will fit into the dash tube. It seems way to big. My other question . . . if this is the "upper" steering bush, is there a "lower" steering bush? I don't see any mention of that in the manual. The on-line parts store says I need 2 bushes per car, so I would assume there's a lower bush . . .

Is there some secret to getting my upper column and any required bushes installed? Any guidance would be appreciated.

- Jake

[Tango7]

Try using WD40 on the rubber to make it slide into the chassis. The lubricant will dry and the bush will remain in place. There are two small nodules that locate in the chassis from memory. The bottom bush should already be in the chassis ISTR

HTH

T

[jturrell]

Got it! Thanks for the very quick help.

- Jake

[PhilipRJ]

Hello Jake,

My son and I are in the middle of a build as well, hope that you're enjoying it as much as we are.

We have just done the steering column and the bits that you're talking about.

The top bush does go in even though it seems so big. We covered it in silicone lubricant and then used a ring spanner and a hammer to push it in evenly. When it went far enough in it needed turning so that the rubber lugs went into the holes in the tube (which are at 3 and 9 o'clock). It also helps if you use a pen to mark where the lugs are because you can't see them when its in the tube.

The lower bush can be a problem. You can find it just inside the hole where the column enters the engine bay (just behind the pedal box).
The problem can be the white plastic bearing, it is VERY easy to push it out of the bush with the steering column, or drag it out of the top of the bush if you withdraw the steering column. So, plenty of grease on the column and on the bearing. Eventually we also filed a very small chamfer on the end of the upper sterring column which stopped it snagging on the white bearing.

What else have you done so far ?

Regards, Philip and Hugh

[DaveK-S1]

Couple of tips for installing this bush

Polish the steering column first as this i find helps.

Red rubber grease is the best product as it doesn't dry out or scrape off when installing the bush, the two rubber dots still locate the bush.

Dave

[jturrell]

Hi Philip,

We really are enjoying the build. I was joking with my wife telling her I was going to sell the car just so I could build another. While my three boys are quite young, they've been really helpful in the garage.

We are nearing the finish line. All that's left is wiring and plumbing and some other minor loose ends. The registration process in Texas is a bit of a challenge for assembled vehicles, but is really just an issue of having the right paper work.

Thanks again to everyone for the help.

- Jake