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Jaguar Mk 1 Sedan

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Mark Sigfrinius

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I just had another birthday and I can't remember if I have posted this question previously. If I have...sorry. I love driving my all stock '59 MK1 Sedan. (3.4 with automatic) My only problem is that the steering is like a 1935 Mack truck. Is there any way to make it easier on two tired arms? Any assistancd would be appreciated. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazyeyes.gif <font color="brown"> </font>
 
Mark,

I hadn't said hello to you yet (I don't think anyway, had a birthday on the third /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif) so I wanted to welcome you to the forum. I am sorry, but I am not familiar with the Mark I Sedan, so I can't answer. Hang in there on this question, I am sure that someone will have some ideas for you. Best regards and enjoy your Mark.. I have always thought they were beautiful cars and would love to see a picture. You can post in the Member Rides section on the home page if you like.

Cheers,

Brian
 
Hello Mark,
I have a MK 2 and, apart from parking, the steering is not heavy at all. Make sure all the steering joints are sound, check the steering box and have an alignmemt check carried out on the geometry. Also, what tyres and pressures are you running? I have 185 15 radials at 30 psi.

Alec /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thirsty.gif
 
Alec,
I am running Pirelli radial 'touring' tires (oops...tyres) and try to keep the pressure at 32 psi. I will have someone check out the steering box and maybe there is a new type of grease they can use. The alignment is a good thought but yesterday I hit 100 MPH and there was absolutely no vibration or movement of the steering wheel at all. The tires (oops.....again..tyers)are wearing evenly but I will have the front end looked over. Thanks for the tips. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/driving.gif
 
Brian,
I tried adding an attachment but something blew up and I have to head out for a while. I'll try later to post a picture of the Mark1 later today or tomorrow. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/patriot.gif
 
Does your Jag have a power steering gear box? If you have power steering it must be functional or you will have heavy steering. I have noticed that a popular conversion is to adapt the box steering to a rack and pinion after market. That might be a clue as to why it is a popular conversion.
 
Hello Mark,
I haven't driven a 35 Mack Truck lately, but my Mark 1 is no more difficult to turn than other manual steering cars I have driven. If yours is binding somewhere, I would also advise you to carefully inspect the condition of the rubber connector on your steering column, as this may exert some undue stress which could lead to a dangerous failure.
If all is found to be in good shape, just sit back and enjoy the fact that you will not need to work those arms out at an expensive gym!
 
Dear Jack,
Nope. No power steering. I don't believe it was even an option. I will check out the "option" of the rack & pinion update. Thanks for the suggestions.

Mark /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif
 
Dan,
Rubber connector? I just might go out and look and see if there even is one of those on my car! And as for not having to work out in a gym to build my upper body strength.....my wife has enough "honey doo's for moving rocks, fountains and other unusual garden equipment that going to a gym would already be a waste of time. My best workout is the Harley with the sidecar. Push and pull through the corners keeps me strong especially on winding roads! I will have the front end checked out on the Jag...what a nice car it is.
Mark /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/lol.gif
 
HI Mark, /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/iagree.gifMark ones and Mark twos with out power assisted steering drive like mack trucks. This heavy steering is increased if the tire size exceeds the original specification.A maximum tire size of 185 X 15 will control the heavy steering somewhat but the end solution for these saloons is to fit a rack and pinion unit. Electric ones are available in the UK that are powered independant of the engine but are quite pricy.-FWIW--- /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cheers.gifKeoke P.S. those saloons with factory powerassist units tend to go where they want to also. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif
 
Hello Keoke,
all I can say is that Mack trucks must steer better than the insinuation suggests. I do not consider a MK 2 heavy to steer while on the move. (there again I do not drive a car with power assisted steering, nor do I want to) I am sorry that I did not buy a high ratio box for my MK 2 when they were being offered for sale, I haven't seen any now for many years. That is my only critisism of the MK 2 steering, it's a little too low geared. How heavy a high ratio box makes the steering I can only guess. By the way my wife never had any problems with driving the Mk 2 either.

Alec /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thirsty.gif
 
Well, my Mark 2 does not steer like a Mack truck. Sure it's heavy in the car park when manoevering but on the road its steering is finger touch stuff.
Mark, is the steering stiff around the wheels straight ahead position and then loosens as you turn the wheel? This can be caused by the steering box being over tightened. (There is an end float adjustment and lock nut on the top of the steering box).
If your Hawthorn joint had failed you would had a lot of slack in the steering. I've replaced mine and it was virtually decomposing without any apparent symptoms.
Does the Mark 2 steering fit the Mark 1? If so, one option maybe the Mark 2 power steering or even the better "S"-type power steering front end with better brake callipers. It fits the Mark 2 and reconditioned units are not that expensive here (in Oz about A$1,500) and dead easy to fit.
Persevere, however, something is wrong and you will get so much more pleasure from driving a car that steers well.
GrahamL
 
Graham......sorry for the long delay in reply. I ended up with a pile of work and then sped off for a vacation on the Harley-Davidson with my wife to Yellowstone National Park. Being a top flight mechanic (Pliers & an adjustable wrench only!) I've never heard of a Hawthorn joint (I have a Hawthorn tree in my yard but that doesn't count) but if you say there is one I'll take your word for it. As soon as the new bedroom furniture arrives (must keep her happy /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif) and if there is any money left I am going to have the entire steering/front end/tires checked out. I was saving for a set of wire wheels but this is much more important. Thanks for the advice.......Mark /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif
 
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