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MG MGA - Steering gear dampers
| Is it correct for the passenger side damper to have the spring facing the rack?  I noticed there is a 'dimple' along the run somewhere close to neutral position on the rack.  It did seem a bit odd...so just wondering while I have easy access if I need to adjust this fitment. Steve | 
| Stephen Lofaro | 
| No. Spring goes between the cap nut and the brass damper, and the damper runs against the rack. | 
| Barney Gaylord | 
| I have to correct this Barney, as I think  you are absolutely right.  What a mistake this has been! Who was that mechanic? I will closely inspect the exploded diagrams to see if I need parts to correct this. Thank you again for the insight.  Maybe it is just upside down...lol.  Hoping so. Steve | 
| Stephen Lofaro | 
| Barney, on a closer look it seems the damper is worn through!  I think it is supposed to have a curved facia to run on the rack on one side of it...I better order a replacement. Steve | 
| Stephen Lofaro | 
| The brass damper cup is flat faced when new. With time and use it will wear concave to match the OD of the rack. I have seen these worn down enough to merit replacement, but have never seen one worn through. | 
| Barney Gaylord | 
| Barney mine was worn through and I have fitted a replacement.  It looks copper colored.  Are these brass? | 
| Stephen Lofaro | 
| Yes, probably a bronze casting, or possible a brass screw machine part. I've never seen one worn through to the spring. I wonder if that requires running it with no oil for some time? | 
| Barney Gaylord | 
| Well, I have put oil in it already and I have to think whatever the bearing surface is with the new part is better than what it was! I removed all the grease that was previously in the rack and lubricated with 85/90w hypoid to about 6 oz. It took a while. As far as running in...I will check it in 10 years and it might still be flat. In any case I will jack up the front and give a feel to the steering. Thanks. | 
| Stephen Lofaro | 
This thread was discussed between 25/06/2013 and 04/07/2013
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