MG-Cars.info

Welcome to our Site for MG, Triumph and Austin-Healey Car Information.

Parts

MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG TD TF 1500 - Replacing steering rack boots

This is a quick question.

My TD is up on a scissor lift right now and I see one of the steering boots is cracked. Anyone know if it's possible to replace the boot (disconnect tie rod) with the wheel on the ground, i.e. not jacking up and/or removing the wheel? The reason I'm asking is because I have great access from the front while it's up in the air, and the front wheels are helping keep the TD from rolling off the front of the lift (it tilts forward).

I've done this job before on my Midget but I didn't have easy access while it was sitting on the ground so just jacked it up & removed the wheel. So I am familiar with what needs to be done.

Thanks,
Scott
Scott Linn

If one side is cracked the other side may also be or close to it. Replace both of them. Moss rubber is not the best.
Mike
Mike Hart

I bought a pair a while back so I'll do both. But it would be great if someone knew if I can remove the tie rod with the wheel on and on the "ground".

I guess maybe I'll just have to try it out...

Scott
Scott Linn

Scott,
Yes, you can do it with the wheels on the ground,, It just makes it more difficult to turn the wheels if you have to in order to intsall the new boot or reattach the tie rod end.

Steve
Steve Wincze

Scott,
Yes, you can do it with the wheel on the ground,, It just makes it more difficult to turn the wheels if you have to in order to intsall the new boot.

Steve
Steve Wincze

I suppose it could be done but getting the tie rod end apart might be tricky with it being so close to the rim. I like to loosen up the nut to the point where it still engages all of the threads on the stud and then use a floor jack under the stud and raise it until it has taken a good portion of the weight on it. Them I whack the side of the steering arm eye with a hammer and the tie rod pops out. I don't think you can get a jack in there with the wheel on. Once you get the tie rod end off it makes it a bit easier to install the boot if you can move the rack fully in or out in either direction. I replaced the crappy not that old boots on the TF some time ago some urethane type from NAPA that are designed for the MGB. I don't have the part number on hand but if you look in the archives you should find it. I expect they will last a lot longer that what is being sold from China at our supply sources.
L E D LaVerne

Getting the boots off and on is greatly facilitated by being able to turn the wheels in and out by hand, is up on jacks is better..
Geoffrey M Baker

This thread was discussed between 15/06/2016 and 16/06/2016

MG TD TF 1500 index

This thread is from the archives. Join the live MG TD TF 1500 BBS now