I recently removed my PS. The lines are looped as FM states but I plan to remove the seal in the rack next time I have it off. My question is what should I use to plug the threaded holes where the pump connected to the rack. I was thinking threaded plugs but on FM's site it looks like they used dust caps. And if they are dust caps where can I get some that small?

 

I cut the lines short and smashed them closed with a BFH. Not pretty, but who's looking that closely? All you have to do is keep debris out and lubricant in.

BTW - Why is "DIY Turbo Discussion" regarded as a catch-all? We do have a suspension section and a "General Miata" section.

 

They are some kind of threaded plug with a rounded end, not sure of the name, but I'm sure we make them (intern with a fastener company). I'm gonna cheap out and get a "five-finger discount" at work instead of the paying FM as soon as I finger out the sizes.

 

Same here but added a short piece of hose with a bolt to plug it.

 

I recently had the pleasure of driving a car with a manual rack. One reaction was - omfg why would people do this.

 

You didn't like it?

 

Would anyone mind taking some measurements on the threads for these? I actually sold all my PS equipment about 2 weeks ago and didn't think about doing so myself.

 

+1 I did the same thing, but used a bench vise to smash the lines.

 

I did what ZX did, but then ran the TIG welder down the seam without filler rod. This was on my Locost 7 project, not my current car. I did the seal removal. Of course, it was no biggie as I cut 5 1/4" out of the center of the rack and the shaft while I was doing it. No way I'm giving up PS on my DD.

 

Well I think I will go with the caps FM used if I can find any. I used one to cap off the oil return on the passenger side of my block and it works great. Does anyone know where I can get these, other than ordering them? They are called tapered plugs/caps. Here's a picture for those of you who don't know what I'm talking about.

 

one of the the biggest threaded bolt is the exact same size as the oil drain plug. you can get one at autozone for a couple bucks. everything else i either looped with rubber hose or pinched **** with pliers

 

Not at all.

 

I've only driven one manual steering Miata and for a DD I didn't like it. I know, I'm a puss. I understand that for the track the word is that it is great, but I personally wouldn't do it for my street car. I only did it on the 7 project because the car was going to be 1,300 lbs so no biggie.

 

My GF drove my car the other day and when she got back this is what she said. "I thought you took power steering off this thing. It drives just like my car." She drives a 2007 Honda Civic. Maybe we are just stronger than you.

 

check your PM's

 

***** ;p

 

Yea I dont know why people like it for track either, anything below 15mph it requires more effort then is comfortable to turn the wheel. All you really feel from it is the greater tendency for the steering wheel to return to center. Id much rather concentrate on driving then exerting myself on turning a steering wheel with both hands.

Maybe its just this particular miata that I drove, it was sitting on really wide nittos.

Maybe, but I also realize what needs to be modified and not. The PS is one thing I would not want to remove or change. Driving basically became a workout.

 

I cant believe some of you guys still bitch about manual racks.

Maybe you should work on growing some muscles.....ladies.

In all seriousness. Miatas don't need PS.

 

X2

2 of my Miatas had manual steering, and when I do the turbo install I am removing the P/S. Miatas don't need P/S.

You want to bitch about hard to turn, try driving a 1967 Mustang GT with a 390 and NO power steering. My dads 1964 F350 with no P/S was easier to steer. Due to the 16" steering wheel vs the 14" wheel my Mustang had.

 

Hey, I already said I was a puss. I'm old, too. Man, stomp a guy's nuts while he is down.

I'm sure that I would get used to it but I enjoy the ease of it. I also could see some detriment to my auto-xing where the faster transitions could be hampered.