Steering rack limiters

[1owner69Elan]

I need to limit the steering rack travel on my 69 S4 SE (LHD) as I have now fitted some larger tires and they just slightly rub the ARB at full lock.

I don't need much clearance but I was wondering if anyone with a similar issue had used add-on steering rack limiters like are used on Mustangs in the US and on Minis in the UK (https://www.minisport.com/kad1012230-ka ... r-kit.html).Turns out the Mini limiters from KAD have close to the correct ID for the Elan rack (22mm vs 27/32"). However, I haven't been able to determine the ID on the Mustang limiters (http://www.americanmuscle.com/ford-stee ... -7904.html) but I think they are probably bigger. The Mustang limiters come in different widths and you can use them in a multiple configuration to achieve greater limitation.They are an OEM Ford part so not just some oddball application.

I don't think I will need more than one limiter of a nominal 1/4" width or so, each side. The Mini ones should be more than adequate.

Seems like an easy way to go as opposed to fabricating a slightly larger steel sleeve limiter (as stock) at both ends of the rack and removing and taking the rack apart again (I just recently refurbished and installed the rack)).

The clip-on nylon (delrin) limiters appear to be a quick option. Anyone with experience or advice?

[Craven]

Hi,
When you consider the work these stops actually do, that is rarely anything, then as long as they don?t pose a safety issue the clip on option is fine. I have made close fitting nylon spacer that grip the rack and stayed in place for years with no problems.
Ron.

[1owner69Elan]

Thought I would follow up on my earlier post regarding steering rack limiters.

1. I ordered limiters from KAD which are actually for the original Mini. They have the correct ID. The kit also includes a pair of larger diameter ones as well - too big for the Elan.
2. I also ordered clip-on limiters used for the 1979-2004 Ford Mustang. I didn't know the ID in advance but took the chance as they are cheap. It turns out the ID is very close to the requirement: 27/32 inch (IIRC).

I used the Mustang clip-ons as the installation is trivial and does not require removal/disassembly of the rack. The KAD ones look like they would be challenging to get them onto the rack without taking the rack apart and slipping them on over the ends. The KAD ones don't appear to be "spreadable" like the Mustang ones. They also recommend putting a plastic cable tie around them - not sure why: "belt and braces"? Mini owners apparently struggled mightily installing these as indicated on various on-line Mini boards.

Pictures below show the two different parts and then the installation of the Mustang ones on the Elan. I used two limiters per side to get the needed clearance. Easy to adjust by adding/subtracting limiters. The boots were slipped over them and then secured normally. Now, no rubbing of the tire on the ARB.