Hi all,
I recently purchased a SM and noticed a lot of play (axially and radially) within the quick release steering wheel. The female spline (adapter side) on the quick release shows a lot of damage. It is all burred and the splines are eroded within the adapter. I have a hard time forcing the wheel to lock on the steering shaft (axially) as well as notice a lot of radial play when steering. As I'm new to SM and working on cars, i was wondering if someone knew what the best route for me to go about this issue would be.
1- Should I remove the Steering rack and quick release altogether and purchase a new kit (including the steering rack)? Currently the male spline portion is welded to the steering shaft. I dont see any easy way to remove this. The spline on this end looks great. My plan initially was not to remove this as it looks quite invasive but i am worried about the huge amount of aluminum shavings that have collected within the bearings. I haven't noticed any notchiness while driving but it still doesnt look right. (pictures below)
2- Remove the damaged spline on the quick release (steering wheel). If so, does anyone happen to know what the adapter spline MFG is? I've searched the internet the last few hours and havent been able to find it.
I would like to go away from the spline quick release but with the spline welded to the steering shaft, i dont know if htis is an option at this point. Any opinions on quick release versus the 6 ball releases?
I'd greatly appreciate any input.
Thank you,