The 'E' Type Forum

Does anyone know the difference between RHD and LHD versions of the upper steering column, if indeed there is any? SNG Barrett list different part numbers but the diagram used is the same so you can't see a difference.

(The S2 column is quite different from the S1 one and has a collapsible section of outer "tube" as well as different mountings.)

Have those of you who've done LHD to RHD conversions needed a new upper steering column?

I have a LHD car and want to pick up a spare upper column to investigate modifications required to add electric steering (EPAS). The spare column doesn't have to be in great condition.

I know about the EZ Steer kit but I am a) doing this as a home project and b) not looking to spend that sort of money on it :)

Thanks

Mark

Steering lock on different side LHD to RHD.

Geoff

Thanks Geoff,

Mine's an a/c equipped car (like yours was) so no lock on the steering column. I guess I could always cut/grind the lock off either a RHD or LHD for my purposes

Now to find one... shame I can't make it to spares day

Cheers

Mark

The alloy lock casting is just pushed on to the metal top tube and held in place with a pin which you can drill out - covered in the tech pages on this forum easy to convert LHD-RHD. You can fit a S1 column to your car at further expense of course as you need the lower column too. Easier to modify for electric power steering though ? There is an earlier s1.5 collapsible type on ebay currently in the US (well it was there yesterday) which is affordable including postage - from a guy I have bought from in the past.

hope this info helps

Barrie

Thanks Barrie,

Funny enough I did see that ebay listing and have put it on my watch list. It certainly qualifies for my "doesn't have to be in great condition" criteria but it'd clean up just fine and serve my experimental purposes.

Was hoping to find one locally but it's an option.

Cheers

Mark

Hi Mark...post in our wanted section.....Steve

I have converted the LHD S2 column to RHD a few times. It is relatively easy. As mentioned, just drill the pin and reposition at 180 degrees bit like doing the LHD/RHD wiper motor conversion.

An S2 column is not interchangeable with an S1 as the intermediate captive nuts in the bulkhead on the upper section are different between S1 and S2 from memory. You can do it though with fabrication.

The S2 column is better as it collapses on hard front impact. That is why some people like them on fitted their S1s.

The S2 upper column is very fragile by design. The broached casing easily becoming out of shape when removed from the car making the upper on lower bearing alignment go out of wack. I have had them in the past not want to turn by hand, however 2 minutes in the vice and a pull and they are back into shape and like new again. So worth checking.

The wavy washer is often broken too, causing the taper bearings to unseat giving loads of column play, so that is worth checking too as it costs pennies.