steering pinion replacement ? 58 sprite

[sim]

Have the new one almost installed.
Have a look at the photo and let me know if it is ok to leave a bit of the splines showing. If I tap the steering shaft down any furthers the grove gets out of alignment with the clamping bolt.
Just a note. Before removing the old pinion, I still had a bit of play between the clamping collar and the splines on the pinion. This play is now gone and I have not yet secured the clamping bolt.
I did notice this play for some time while driving. So for all others with just a little play from left to right, check this part. As there should be no play between these 2 parts.
I got lucky on this one. As it failed on a left turn at very low speed. The day was cold the carbs still had not gotten to running temperatures
thanks
Sim

 

[JPSmit]

as long as the spline hole is lined up, the bolt inserted and the nut tight, you are good to go!

 

[sim]

Hi
Thanks very much
Sim

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Agreed, So as I remember changing out that part was pretty easy and you'll find that a lot of the "slop" in the steering from worn pinion gears and the rack is gone. Just make sure a new metal nylock goes on there and I also used a lock washer. Not sure if a lock washer was on there originally or not.

You definitely dodged a bullet. Have fun getting back on the road.