steering rack grease nipple.

[Rusty47]

Thanks very much for previous advice.On my 1977 1300 rwd,the grease nipple at the point where the column meets the rack is loose,and moves from side to side when I try to grease the rack with the grease gun. so no grease getting in.I see on the forum that some other owners have had a similar problem,and the advice given, was to remove the rack to work on it,or obtain a reconditioned rack.My question is,would it be OK to drill into the housing just above where the faulty nipple is,and fit a new nipple there?Or would that be a wrong move,but it would avoid removing the complete rack.Thanks,Joe.

[Rusty47]

I had hoped that someone with more engineering tech than I,had experienced a similar issue,and could suggest whether or not my plan to drill and tap the housing was wise or just plain daft.As no advice this time,I will probably not drill,but wait to get a recon rack later in the year.Thanks for previous advice.Joe.

[MIG Wielder]

Hi Joe, Sorry about the late reply. The first thing I'd do is just replace the grease nipple in case the thread on it has partially stripped. If that cures it then all is good. Otherwise its off to a specialist for ( probably ) a Helicoil repair.
Tony.

[Rusty47]

Than you so much,Tony for your very helpful advice, as always.If the nipple unscrews,the I will attempt to fit a new one.If thats not possible,then I will follow your plan B.Thanks for your time and help.Joe.

[Richard the old one]

I am assuming that you think the grease nipple is screwed into the pinion body, I did until I took a rack apart. It actually screws into a part number 143961 which is a sort of bush which will just turn round and round. If you have a Haynes manual it has a sectional drawing through the pin shaft and pressure pad which shows the set up.

[Rusty47]

Thanks Richard.Yes,I did think that the nipple screwed into the pinion body housing, so it looks like a recon rack is needed as the nipple just turns,not being able to either screw it in or unscrew it.Thanks again.Joe.

[Richard the old one]

The problem is where can you get a good reconditioned rack? I think I would just continue to use the existing rack if you are not aware of any problems with it but in the mean time see if you can purchase another rack.

If you have the necessary tools and are relatively mechanically competent it is not to difficult to undertake some repairs to the racks. Obviously like working on the brakes it is a safety critical item so you have to take great care. The problem comes if the rack shaft is bent or worn then you end up having to get another. I did produce an article on how to overhaul a rack a number of years ago which you should be able to find on the clubs discussion board.

[Carledo]

Due to retirement of our previous supplier and the employment of a new (and pickier) one, Club exchange racks are now available in 2 grades with prices to match. One uses a good used rack bar (this has been identified as being the weak point, around 80% of core racks returned to him have been rejected for recon because the rack bar is not of recon-able quality) or you can go for a more expensive option with a NEW rack bar in it.

One or two of the usual suspects are still doing "cheap" recon racks for Dolomites, in all honesty, they don't tend to last long as there's not much you can do and still sell at a profit for £45 or so! A couple of plastic bushes, a pair of cheap gaiters and a lick of paint is about it!

Steve