Steering Rack

The Oily Bits S1 Specific Topics
1

Hi All
Whilst having my Exige serviced the mechanic said there’s a fair bit of play in the steering rack - a new one from Lotus will be approx �380 inc vat but + fitting. I saw this on fleabay:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=170352913862

My questions are

  1. Will this be the same spec as an S1 Exige rack
  2. Would it worry you that this has probably come off a rear end write off
  3. Should I just make do with the current rack until I can justify spending the money to get a new Lotus one fitted.

Your thoughts would be appreciated

Cheers
Alex

2

Hi,

not the same rack, the Exige has a different rack
2.2 turns lock to lock instead of 2.7 turns lock to lock on Elise rack.

So don’t do it because the steering won’t feel as responsive as before

Steering rack replacement is not rocket science and no clam off job either
i can do it within 1,5 hrs and i’m no professional mechanic

3

Could be just the tie rods that need replacing …
Under the rubber gaiter is there a Hex nut holding the rod in ? If so you can get these re-conned or source them from somewhere other than Lotus I reckon…

On my other car it cost a tenner a side to recon them
:wink:

4

Does anyone know what car the rack was originally off before lotus modified it for the Elise/Exige?

5

They’re made by “Titan”, & re-furb kits are available.

http://www.titan.uk.net/steering.php

6

Thanks, I am not sure if I have play in my rack, its done 38k and I use the car most days. I need to strip it down and have a look realy and check to see if there is any play anywhere.

thanks

7

Thansk for all the advice - sent Titan an email today to get price, will post reply.
Cheers
Alex