Series steering assembly off centre

[Cap]

I had a google search for this issue but nothing came up specifically with the answer I need. When I sit on the drivers seat, I noticed that the steering wheel is very much to the left side. I then stood in front of the S2a (no guards on) and noticed that the whole assembly is crooked when compared to the pedal towers. The only reason I can think of is that the bulkhead brackets (specifically the one that holds the bulkhead and the steering box) is somehow bent, but looks to be undamaged.

Question is, how can I fix this? I was thinking perhaps to unbolt the steering box from the bracket, then maybe use washers as spacers on the upper bolts to pull the steering straight, but then this may mean that the steering shaft if offset to the bulkhead hole.

Any suggestions on a fix?

[JDNSW]

Not quite clear what your issue is (pictures?) - but note that the instructions suggest washers may be needed to attach the angled bracket to the bulkhead, which may be your issue. Do not assemble it so there is any strain on the steering column.

[67hardtop]

I had a google search for this issue but nothing came up specifically with the answer I need. When I sit on the drivers seat, I noticed that the steering wheel is very much to the left side. I then stood in front of the S2a (no guards on) and noticed that the whole assembly is crooked when compared to the pedal towers. The only reason I can think of is that the bulkhead brackets (specifically the one that holds the bulkhead and the steering box) is somehow bent, but looks to be undamaged.

Question is, how can I fix this? I was thinking perhaps to unbolt the steering box from the bracket, then maybe use washers as spacers on the upper bolts to pull the steering straight, but then this may mean that the steering shaft if offset to the bulkhead hole.

Any suggestions on a fix?

Take some pics. Its better to see whats wrong than trying to guess by description

[Cap]

ok, a quick vid as pics were not cutting it. I used a ruler as a gauge so hope you can see how badly off it is. Can believe i didnt see it before hand.

[JDNSW]

So the issue is that it is at an angle to the left?

When I look at mine, I find it is also at a slight angle! I suspect that this is an inevitable consequence of manufacturing tolerances, particularly in where the firewall ends up sideways-relative to the side of the chassis that the steering box support is bolted to. This may be affected by either chassis or bulkhead repairs.

[Cap]

I wouldnt mind a slight off centre but this is too much. So is there a way to resolve eg using spacers or perhaps even removing the support bracket and twist it (try to!) so that it compensates?

[JDNSW]

I would start by looking at the support bracket and the bulkhead for any distortion. Most of the attachments have some holes slotted, but I'm not sure this allows enogh movement, or in the right direction.

The sideways angle of the steering box is set by the support bracket (the bit that bolts to the chassis, the stiffener bracket (the bracket that bolts to the firewall or bulkhead) and the steering column clamp inside the cab.

In your case you want to move the steering box inboard if I have it right. To do this you will probably have to slot the bolt holes in the firewall for the stiffener bracket and possibly shim the attachment of the support bracket to the chassis so it leans in a little. The steering column clamp can hardly be moved, as it has to match the hole in the firewall. Just be careful to not stress the steering column. A bit of a spring sideways on the support bracket is not a problem.

[Cap]

Thanks. upon looking at the book it seems like that bracket is the culprit. never thought to check it but will do now. I have a spare one too that ill compare with. I wont put any pressure on the column which means it has to be right at the box.

[B.S.F.]

You may have a Series 1 support bracket fitted, which has got an offset. Series 2 brackets are straight.
.W.

[Cap]

So I went ahead and pulled the bracket off the rover (PITA with steering still in place but dooable) and the design has a manufactured bend in it so that it does twist the top half (both sides towards the inside of the car). Basically this means I m locked into that position which is really annoying.

Can someone confirm that this is the actual design for the early series 2a? I have the same bracket from my 109 1967 so I figure its correct or someone has changed it in the past (highly unlikely).

If its the design then ill just have to adjust and live with it. Any confirmation greatly appreciated.

Cheers,