[Mgs] 57 MGA Coupe

[Douglas Shook]

Hi Max,

That sounds reasonable.

One could check to see if there is any free play in the steering wheel/column first to ensure that the binding is not there.

Then with the wheels in the air, check to see if there is a bit of lateral play at the wheels to ensure that the kingpins are not frozen. One or both of them could be frozen.

If a bit of play exists at the steering column and at the wheels, it would help to narrow it down to the rack.

Best,

Doug
________________________________
From: Mgs <mgs-bounces at autox.team.net> on behalf of Max Heim <mvheim at sonic.net>
Sent: Saturday, June 13, 2026 11:08 PM
To: dave northrup <dave at ranteer.com>
Cc: mgs at autox.team.net <mgs at autox.team.net>
Subject: Re: [Mgs] 57 MGA Coupe

I would suggest that the oil/grease in the steering rack has congealed. Possibly the kingpins are in similar straits. You could disconnect the tie rod ends to see if the rack moves independent of the wheels, or vice versa.

--
Max Heim
'66 MGB

On Jun 13, 2026, at 10:12 PM, dave northrup <dave at ranteer.com> wrote:

A friend just picked up a 57 coupe, not running, not doing much, been sitting for a long time.  We are in Nevada, so shouldn’t be too bad in terms of moisture/rust damage

The steering wheel won’t turn, even with the wheels in the air.

We are trying to figure out where to even start on this.  Could use some suggestions.
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