TR4/4A TR4 Steering column coupler

[MrAlex]

I noticed that I had a little play on the lower part of my TR4 steering column (lower metal adaptor from the flexible coupling to the Rack splines). I try to tighten the clamp bolt but is does not help. I was thinking to replace the bolt (grade 8?) and try again to tighten. It seems that new adaptor replacements are no longer available if I wanted to try to replace the adapter (splines on the rack look ok). The other possibility I wanted to explore was using the TR250/TR6 lower Universal joint as a direct replacement for the entire lower coupling?? Has anyone done this on a TR4 / TR4A ? Thanks

 

[DougF]

Grade 8 will work, but is not necessary. Grade 5 fasteners are rated at 120,000 psi and are more than adequate for this application.
In fact, grade 5 is adequate on all body and suspension applications on our cars. These aren't 5,000 lb. boulevard cruisers and the stresses aren't that great unless racing. I would always use grade 8 fasteners (150,000 psi and above) on moving drivetrain parts.
That said, many people use grade 8 fasteners in higher stress areas since they provide inexpensive insurance.
Is the flexible coupler in good condition?
Scott Harper at Team Triumph may have a used coupler the will work. (330)392-7176.

 

[TR4nut]

This is a common problem on TR4s, and it is a good idea to fix. It is likely a grade 8 bolt will not fix your trouble, the clamp/shaft splines wear and won't tighten properly.

Here is a link to the same topic on a UK TR website:
Steering clamp discussion

It contains a possible solution to the worn clamp issue. I didn't go that route, I did do the switch to the TR6 style u-joint. I think the universal works great, I switched about 6 months ago and have had no issues - it required zero modifications other than swapping out the coupling.

Randy

 

[MrAlex]

Just following up to close this thread. I replaced the lower steering column flex coupling with the TR250/TR6 universal. Only took me 45 minutes. Everything is nice an tight now. I did try a grade 8 bolt with the old setup and as suggested, no help. Thanks for the help.

 

[MichaelG]

Dittos. I installed the TR250/TR6 universal on my 4A years ago with good results.

 

[tdskip]

Mr Alex (or Randy and Mike) - any pictures of the new u joint in place?

This sounds like a good approach....