Rack & Pinion adjustment - Page 2

spdbrake · #1 (**permalink**) 10-07-2021, 09:08 AM

Its the 1st part number listed in the 1st thread I linked. You'll need two bearings.

Remove the bottom bolt on the lower universal and pull the universal off the rack pinion spline.
Remove the two cross bolts that hold the BDR universal assy in the hollow smaller center column.
Remove the the universal assy from the hollow center column tube.
Loosen the two allen set screws that are in the large OD billet spacer. (the lower bearing is right behind it).
Slide the spacer and bearing out.
You can now pull the steering wheel and center tube out and access the upper bearing. (Outer support tube is not disturbed)

SBSerpent · #2 (**permalink**) 10-07-2021, 02:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spdbrake

Its the 1st part number listed in the 1st thread I linked. You'll need two bearings.

Remove the bottom bolt on the lower universal and pull the universal off the rack pinion spline.
Remove the two cross bolts that hold the BDR universal assy in the hollow smaller center column.
Remove the the universal assy from the hollow center column tube.
Loosen the two allen set screws that are in the large OD billet spacer. (the lower bearing is right behind it).
Slide the spacer and bearing out.
You can now pull the steering wheel and center tube out and access the upper bearing. (Outer support tube is not disturbed)

I take it that I don't have to do anything with the blinker arm assembly? Just leave it secured to the outer support tube?

spdbrake · #3 (**permalink**) 10-07-2021, 03:45 PM

Correct, the blinker is attached to the outer tube and is not disturbed either.

Quentin Z · #4 (**permalink**) 11-22-2021, 02:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spdbrake

Its the 1st part number listed in the 1st thread I linked. You'll need two bearings.(Outer support tube is not disturbed)

The bearings are sold in pairs.

Seanpatrick · #5 (**permalink**) 11-19-2021, 05:20 PM

Great, I called them this morning. Hopefully they get back to me. So that top shaft fits in the hallow steering wheel shaft. I know once I get all the parts I can figure it out �� or bug you guys to death. Did you notice a good improvement? With this project and the front fan project I’ll stay busy out here for awhile. SPM

FredG · #6 (**permalink**) 11-19-2021, 06:39 PM

It is quite noticeable. No more flexing or twisting along the steering column. I strongly suggest installing Camber Plates. They are another significant improvement. The stock top shock mount is encases in rubber. With Camber Plates it's steel. Makes the handling more precise. The final improvement would be to bag the original manual rack.......It's garbage.

Seanpatrick · #7 (**permalink**) 11-19-2021, 07:04 PM

Is there a kit I can buy for the rack. What would you recommend? Is it something I can do in my garage? It’s kind of fun working on this thing. It’s getting addicting. I found myself living in my garage haha Anything I can do to make this car better I’ll do. I want to add those fans in front. I’m very happy with the 15 inch rims and a Billboards. Being in Ohio I’ll have all winter to improve it. SPM

FredG · #8 (**permalink**) 11-20-2021, 03:33 PM

No. there is no complete kit offered that I know of. The prevailing thought and the rack that seems to be the most popular to convert to would be the rack from a BMW Z3. This rack will be 2.5 turns from lock to lock which is quite an improvement over the 3.6 stock manual rack. You will also have to provide a pump, rack mounts and different tie rod ends. Their are a few Backdraft dealers/shops like Vintage in Connecticut or Miller Speed in California who do the conversions.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Seanpatrick

Is there a kit I can buy for the rack. What would you recommend? Is it something I can do in my garage? It’s kind of fun working on this thing. It’s getting addicting. I found myself living in my garage haha Anything I can do to make this car better I’ll do. I want to add those fans in front. I’m very happy with the 15 inch rims and a Billboards. Being in Ohio I’ll have all winter to improve it. SPM

Seanpatrick · #9 (**permalink**) 11-21-2021, 01:18 PM

I ordered all the parts except for the lower joint. Ill get it ordered tomorrow. I hope the bearings will fit that i ordered. After i get this steering beefed up and those bearings installed ill see if i can live with the rack i have. Any ideas about a booster for the brake system? SPM

spdbrake · #10 (**permalink**) 11-21-2021, 02:29 PM

If your booster is failed there are threads on the site detailing the replacement parts.

I'd start by making sure you actually have a check valve at the booster, VS a a plain 90deg plastic elbow. (like mine had)
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...ck-valve-80190
If you have a non-check valve elbow you lose all your built up vac boost each time you go back to idle.

Mine still works so-so as I only have 11in of vac (still better than the solid roller I removed which had 9in.) But the brakes are adequate and will lock up if need be.

brodie · #11 (**permalink**) 11-23-2021, 06:58 AM

Hi I had the same problem with my glamming river rack.i took of the adjustment nut and spring.and nylon part and packed it with heavy duty tractor grease.put it back together.it worked good

coach36 · #12 (**permalink**) 02-11-2022, 12:49 AM

Same problem here. Fred is right.
I want to stay powerless, but can someone refer to a fitting (RT4) rack which makes it way less than 4 turn lock to lock?

t walgamuth · #13 (**permalink**) 02-11-2022, 11:33 AM

I have a low miles flaming river rack which I replaced with a power rack. I'd sell it reasonably. If there is interest I will go and check how many turns lock to lock it is. IIRC it is 2.5.

coach36 · #14 (**permalink**) 02-20-2022, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

I have a low miles flaming river rack which I replaced with a power rack. I'd sell it reasonably. If there is interest I will go and check how many turns lock to lock it is. IIRC it is 2.5.

OK, would you check please

FredG · #15 (**permalink**) 02-20-2022, 01:34 PM

Do you have a link or part number to that manual 2.5 lock to lock rack. Also, was there any issue with mounting and tie rod ends. Thanks

Fred

Quote:

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

I have a low miles flaming river rack which I replaced with a power rack. I'd sell it reasonably. If there is interest I will go and check how many turns lock to lock it is. IIRC it is 2.5.

Gone · #16 (**permalink**) 02-22-2022, 04:58 PM

Do you have a complete list of parts you used?

BDR_Devin · #17 (**permalink**) 03-04-2022, 10:06 AM

Please check the joint between the steering column and steering universal for loose fasteners, and possible issues. Anything further than that should be diagnosed by a professional. Feel free to give us a call with any parts you need along the way. Phone number is 561-327-4944.