Steering complete

The steering column is now in place, along with the 10 degrees of deflection required for IVA. Obviously this pic exaggerates the angle;

But it has been measured and should be fine. The upper steering column is fixed at the top with the original sliding bolts which will disengage in the event of a crash. The lower fixing of the steering column is an exhaust clamp, again allowing the crush section to behave as it would have done in the MX5.

The upper part of the lower steering column is then supported by the bearing attached to the firewall. I did wonder why this was here as the column seemed pretty solid without it. But I guess belt and braces never hurt anyone. 

The bottom is standard fare, with the N pattern steering rack mounting welded into place. The left hand rack mount is actually the old MX5 rubber mounting, it fits the Escort rack perfectly. I need to grind down a weld to get it to mount flush though. From memory the right hand rack mounting on the MX5 was just a bolt, so that can't be reused. I'll make something out of metal for that side, not a huge job. 

For the next job, I need to mount the fuel tank. I've found someone on Ebay that makes fuel tanks for around £60, with an extra £15 for postage. He's only in Nottingham so I'll drive up and pick it up.

I need to make a frame for the tank. This is where I've moved quite a bit away from the plans. Because I have no need for a rear frame for the standard Seven tub, I've not actually got anywhere to put the gas tank. The tank sits behind the diff, sticking out of the back of the car. So I need to rebuild the back in such a way that it's as supportive as the original design, but doesn't use the rear hoop. Shouldn't be too difficult...