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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Steering Lock

Hi Guys

Just fitting the steering column back into the midget and i have moved the ignition to the dash as per earlier cars and fitted a master switch and start button.

I want to remove the old ignition switch from the column and the steering lock assembly as that is broken anyway from memory, is it just a case of cutting through the two shear bolts ?

If the steering lock was working am i correct in thinking that if i turn the column off the car in the outer tube it should still lock / unlock ?

thanks
Andy
Andy Sebring

the lock is mechanical so yes will still lock on turning, with key out (if its not broken).
You can remove the shear bolts with a tiny cold chisel orounch, or dremel a screwdriver slot across the heads.
I suppose if the lock is u/s then you could just take an angle grinder to it!
David Smith

Or drill and easy-out.
Dave O'Neill 2

I've always used an angle grinder and flat blade screwdriver, sometimes with a hammer for back up.
J White

Thinking about it, the last time I removed one, I just drilled the heads off the bolts.
Dave O'Neill 2

Andy

Use a centre punch and then drift the bolts round to loosen them using a pin punch. Need to make quite a good gouge/hole/ridge to allow you to then use a pin punch for the radial drifting - so don't use your favourite centre punch!

You still then have a useable/saleable lock (when get new shear bolts)

Cheers
Mike
M Wood

Many thanks guys , it was broken so just cur through the bolts and removed, another little job out the way !!
Andy Sebring

This thread was discussed between 29/03/2016 and 01/04/2016

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

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