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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Steering rack clamp gasket material

1971 midget - Morris Minor steering rack with alloy clamps
Failed MoT on Saturday (how DARE they!) with about 5mm movement on the steering rack.
When I built the car up I seem to recollect using a single layer of gaffa tape around the rack as gaskets. This has obviously broken down.
Regardless of what Moss / Haynes etc. recommend, what's the best material to use? Gasket paper (thickness?) / or how about thin rubber - say from a bike inner tube?
Any other suggestions drawn from practical experience please.
Steve Clark

Steve,

I found masking tape worked for me and didn't have any problems with it. Like others take care not to tighten the clamps too much or you'll be looking for another.
David Billington

Steve, I used a few turns of self-amalgamating (if that's the word) insulating tape. Because it is soft, it deforms to the clamp as you tighten it, and yet it stays in place and doesn't wear.
Someone warned me not to putt too much on as the alloy clamps can crack if overstressed.

Guy
Guy Weller

thin rubber from a bike tube worked for me but be careful not to fit too long a trip so that it bunches up. The two metal faces of the clamps need to mate against each other otherwise you'll go "tighten...tighten...crack..." I know.
dave c

This thread was discussed on 28/04/2008

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

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