Steering rack bushes, how to fit?

[JonB]

Hi

Just got a new pair of steering rack mounting rubbers but I am not sure how to fit them. Reason being that they are closed so cannot be slipped over the rack. Should I cut the bushes or is it necessary to remove the rack entirely and dismantle the ends to slide these into place?

http://www.lotuselan.net/wiki/HA_-_Steering_-_Rack_%2B2

Actually, item 28 (one of the bushes) appears to show a cut on one side. Maybe I have to do likewise on my bushes?

[david.g.chapman]

I have just had my rack out on my +2, and my bushes are cut through at the side of the hole for the rack.

These bushes are at least 16 years old, and may be original. They are still in good shape!

I suggest you do the same - if you cut them at the side the cut is compressed nicely on assembly.

Dave Chapman.

[CBUEB1771]

Actually, item 28 (one of the bushes) appears to show a cut on one side.

Yes, the split is shown in the Service Parts List. Both of the bushes are split this way. There is no other way to fit them over the rack body as the pinion housing and the locating flange at the opposite end are not removable.