its not exactly uncommon for the UJ bolts to come loose on all manner of cars - i have seen this on toyota corollas and vauxhall corsas several times over the years. There is usually play noticed before steering could be lost - the splines on column shaft and in the UJ avoid all steering being lost. Looking at the 3 wheeler steering linkages i'm amazed that steering actually failed as the bits can't really part company in use. A photo would be good as i just can't imagine how this could occur.
Last edited by andymot; 01/05/1510:44 PM.
2015 Morgan 4/4 (Wolf fettled) previously 2014 M3W MINI Cooper S and numerous BMC/BL relics.
No photos as M3W on recovery truck. Awaiting official inspection.At time could not understand cause. From visual inspection and by feel no metal breakage found. After much thought maybe the steering column had not been pushed into the uvjoint far enough to locate the locking bolt and column locking indent.Check UV's if you have had steering wheel re-alignments done or check anyway. Damage to n/s lower wishbone on contact with wall. Nerves a little shot. Still had 4000mls of mega-fun, so stiff upper lip and carry on!
After much thought maybe the steering column had not been pushed into the uvjoint far enough to locate the locking bolt and column locking indent.
We had exactly this with our M3W. However, given that the engine has been out and other work conducted on it by various people before we owned it, it is difficult to know who made the error. The amount of engagement of column was 3-5mm. As mentioned, definitely worth checking UJ's!
2012 G56 Stage 2 M3W 2007 Fiat Panda 100HP 1998 Lotus Elise (Cosworth Duratec) 1988 RF88 Van Diemen
I was told by VOSA that 1 in 100 road deaths are caused by component failure and 2 in 100 by incorrect fitting of replacement parts. It was to illustrate how important MOT re- tests are and that a very good look should be done. The above photo high-lights this very well - who on earth would not see the danger in that? There is no way anyone with that basic lack of engineering common-sense should be allowed near spanners.
Going to double check mine today - although i very much doubt the guys at malvern would be responsible for such shoddy assembly.
2015 Morgan 4/4 (Wolf fettled) previously 2014 M3W MINI Cooper S and numerous BMC/BL relics.
