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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Steering Column

Hi

I am renovating a MK 1 midget (GAN-1) and as I got it mostly in boxes I’m not sure if all parts are the right ones. I have found booth MGB and Minor pars so far.
As I’m missing the steering wheel I have to get a “new” one. However I’m not sure of what steering column I have.
The one I have, have a column mounted ignition and starter switch integrated with a steering look. I can’t find this combination in any publications so it may be a Swedish market outfit.

My question is how I can identify the steering column? What’s the difference between the MK1 and MK2 column?

// Sven
Sven Larsson

Early columns were plain, i.e. just a straight column with pinch bolt one end and splines for steering wheel boss at the other, and short threaded section.

Later (mid-60's) had the direction indicator attached.

Late 60's and onwards have steering column lock, and around 1/2 way down a 'trombone-like' sliding mechanism with a 'D' shaped cross-section. A nylon pin was used to fix the length / prevent the tromboning. This pin sheers on front impact to prevent the column pushing into the cockpit.

(Just from memory; HTH)

A
Anthony

Two photos of a GAN2 steering column:


D.G.J. Herwegh

...and the other end:

(Hope this may help.
Cheers,
Nick)


D.G.J. Herwegh

Thanks

When I study the photo I can see that it looks like my GAN 1 column. I suppose there were no change in diameter or splins between GAN 1 and 2.
I will try do upload a picture of my column with lock and all.

// Sven



Sven Larsson

Sven,
Thanks for the photo of the very rare GAN1/GAN2 steering lock. It seems you have part# ACB9425 which, according to part manual AKD3566, was used from the very first GAN1/101 all the way up to GAN2/22616. (Later cars could be fitted with two other types of locks apparently).

Although inner and outer column are totally different from the non-lockable model (as on my car), the splines and diameter of the steering wheel are the same. Ditto for the connection on the steering rack.

If you want a scanned copy of the drawings and description of the lock in AKD3566, then please give me your e-mail address.

Best wishes,

Nick, 63Midget.
D.G.J. Herwegh

Thanks Nick for the info about the steering lock and yes please I would like to have the drawings and description.

// Sven
Sven Larsson

This thread was discussed on 21/05/2008

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