For V8 installations in the MGB (GT) everyone gets into the steering shaft
clearance dilemma solutions unique for their installation. Since this gets
close to suspension and handling, a subject close to my heart, let me offer my
solution to the collection. It was cheap and basically mates two RB u-joints
back to back at the base of the steering column and adds a steering shaft
support.
I have a Buick stroker 4.2L with 11/2 inch set-back motor mounts and installed
in a chrome bumper BGT. The steering rack is completely stock. The engine was
custom fitted for proper height under a stock bonnet and stock front cross
member. I retrofitted RB corner sheet metal around the bell housing with the
appropriate steering column, no steering column angle problems. Pretty standard
stuff.
The end of the stock steering shaft location hit the left exhaust manifold and
had to be lowered to clear. The lowering was accomplished by cutting notches in
the base of the steering rack mounts on the cross member enough to allow
rotating the rack a few degrees and allow the back of the shaft to be lowered
approximately 11/2 inches. This also located the shaft tight to the left frame
rail. The modified steering rack mounts were then re-welded in their new
position.
The location of the steering rack is unchanged in relation to the MG suspension
geometry and additional bump-steer is NOT introduced. I got a second u-joint
for $25 and a junk steering shaft for nothing. I used the splines, approx. two
inches worth, from extra shaft to couple the two u-joints. This bridged the
out-of-line gap between the steering shaft and the steering column.
The key is, you must install a brace on the steering shaft as close to the two
u-joints as possible. You may have to employ the services of some tricky
'bastard' for this, but this shaft support is essential. And, YOU MUST ALIGN IT
PROPERLY. Improper alignment WILL cause steering bind.
My steering is perfectly smooth and the extra u-joint is unnoticeable. I have
also been running autocross or Solo II events. Yes, I have huge modifications
to the suspension in general. What good is superior power if the handling is
not superior? The point is, this inexpensive steering modification works
without a flaw in excessive conditions.
Wayne Clarke
Syracuse, New York
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