Was having some fun working on my 1200 today, getting it back in top condition. Here are some notes on the gearbox adjustment.

Steering gearbox adjustment

Play in the steering wheel? Car wandering slightly side-to-side on the highway?

If the play -- when wiggling the steering wheel back and forth with your fingertips -- is more than 20-25mm (3/4 to 1 inch), tighten the steering box. After 30 years of use the gears wear a bit and can be adjusted.

Of course you'll want to confirm that the steering linkage is tight first, because that's usually where the play is. The tie-rod (side rod) ends, ends of the drag link (cross rod), and particularly the idler arm should be inspected first. If those are in good condition, adjust the steering gearbox.

1. Loosen locknut (14mm), turn counter-clockwise as usual
2. Tighten adjusting screw with a flat-bladed screwdriver, just finger tight. Do not apply any real torque
3. Tighten locknut



Steering gearbox adjustment (RHD model)

Steering Linkage

You can check the steering linkage as follows:

- lie on the ground near the driver's side door, looking at the underside of the car
- reach up and wiggle the steering wheel back and forth (with the door open)
- watch to see if any of the rods move independent of each other. If they do, the rod ends need replacement.
- the steering knuckle, and thus tires, should move with the tie-rods
- the idler arm should NOT move up and down

This can be easier if a mate handles the wheel, leaving you free to inspect the underside, but it can be done without an assistant.

To double check any of the rod ends and idler arm, jack up the wheels and securely block the car, then wiggle the rod end ends forcefully by hand. There should be no play; they are supposed to rotate, but not move end-to-end.

Finally, if in doubt, disconnect the rod-ends, they should move with a firm but smooth drag as you rotate them. If they flop around, they are worn out.