FAM1718 bolts

[AlanH]

I recently acquired an old style (locking wire type) FAM1718 with the intention of polybushing it.

However the bolts are a smaller size than usual (see below). Are these meant for a different model?

I've also got an upper knuckle shaft which does not seem as substantial where it tightens as others that I have.

Any comments would be appreciated, I don't want to take any chances with the steering.

[sprint95m]

The upper steering joint is a pressed version copy of the original.
Seeing as it is sunny today and the snowdrops are out I'll be kind, these are rubbish.
The splines are the wrong dimensions and the shape is oval rather than circular .

Original equipment are drop forged. They are a little bit dearer than the pressed copies, sure, but
they fit correctly and last a long time.




As for the lower joint, you may have one from a small chassis Triumph or maybe even a Lotus?
I don't have part numbers to cross reference to check if that is so I'm afraid.
The part number I have for the joint is 157657 (obtained from the '72 Dolomite parts book).
I believe FAM1718 is a later version of the joint with bifurcated bolts.



Ian.

[cliftyhanger]

Do you mean the bolts holding the 4 joint together??
They are very specific shouldered bolts, so look after them.The joint will work as it should. Just make sure you wire them together once rebuilt, and all will be well.

[Magenta Auto Sprint]

if you need a length of locking wire I can send you some, PM me etc. I bought a drum of it for when I re-built the transfer box on my 42 jeep.

Malcolm

[AlanH]

Do you mean the bolts holding the 4 joint together??

No I mean the size of he bolts that clamp the splines.

[tinweevil]

I see what you mean, the bolts are different thickness corresponding to different size holes in the flex joints?

The bolts that clamp the splines should be HB810 which is 5/16 UNF x 1&1/4. The bolt on the right has far too much thread on it, it should be unthreaded between the jaws of the coupling.
The nut should be TN3208 which is a thinner than standard nylock. 5/16 UNF obviously, 1/2" AF and only 0.36" thick.

I'm guessing the left joint is the correct one but the bolts with it are incorrect. The right joint is the incorrect for our cars but has the correct bolts for it.