The MGB GT V8 uses rack-and-pinion steering with a steering rack mounted on the front crossmember. The driver's steering wheel connects to the rack via a collapsible steering column, with the column designed to deform in a frontal impact rather than spear the driver, a safety feature introduced across the MGB range during the 1970s. The V8 column is a V8-specific item, sized to suit the V8 fascia panel layout and the smaller 80mm instrument binnacle.
V8-Specific Steering Column
The V8 steering column is bulkier than the chrome-bumper four-cylinder MGB column, accommodating the V8 fascia layout and the binnacle position. The column carries the column-stalk switches for indicators, dipped/main beam, and overdrive engagement. Inside the column is the steering shaft with two universal joints to allow the column to follow the angle from the driver to the steering rack pinion. The column is supported by bushes that wear in service and should be renewed when free play develops.
Steering Rack
The rack-and-pinion steering rack is a tube containing the rack (a toothed bar) and the pinion (driven by the steering column). Track rods extend from each end of the rack, connecting to track rod ends that screw into the steering arms on the front hubs. Rack movement converts directly to track rod movement and steering input. The rack is filled with grease and should not require fluid renewal in normal service.
Rack faults, typically free play developing at the pinion or end-fittings, call for rack overhaul or replacement.
Track Rod Ends
Track rod ends are the ball joints that connect the rack track rods to the steering arms on the front hubs. They are wear items: the ball-and-socket joint develops play over time, and the rubber boot that seals the joint can split, allowing grease to escape and contamination to enter. Worn track rod ends cause steering wander and uneven tyre wear, and are an MoT failure item. Track rod ends are renewed individually as condition dictates.
Steering Column Bushes
Bushes support the steering shaft inside the column. Worn bushes allow free play at the steering wheel that translates into vague steering response and difficulty holding a precise line.
Replacement is straightforward during a column overhaul.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies V8-specific steering columns, steering racks, track rod ends, column bushes and all associated steering components for the MGB GT V8.