[FineLineAuto]

We have continued to make updates to the rack and pinion system to make it even easier to use. The price is will remain the same. Changes made include:

1. We replaced the shoulder bolt on the pivot point with a turned steel shaft. The shaft has a hex end instead of a traditional bolt head. This allows you to remove the drive plate without removing the shaft, saving time and making it easier to remount. In addition, the shoulder bolt was .495in in diameter. The new turned shafts are .4995in +0.0/-0.0005in and fit much tighter in the pivot bearings. This removes flex at the pivot point.
2. We redid the CAM tension for the timing belt. It now turns independently from the screws and is easier to adjust.
3. We remade the tensioner receiver in steel instead of aluminum. We have had some reports of this part stripping threads. The change to steel should solve that problem.
4. We redesigned the tensioner mount to allow access to the mounting screw. This allows you to fully tighten it down after the spring is in place and tensioned. The screw is transitioning to a hex head screw to enable access with a wrench.

For anyone wanting to upgrade an existing rack and pinion drive, these will be available on the website by tomorrow.

Here's a full rundown with some pictures.

[DDgitfiddle]

Nate,

Thanks for the update on the changes. They look like they will be helpful.

Regarding change #3 above, I have found that the tensioning screw runs into the head of the flathead screw that holds the tensioner receiver to the main plate. On my machine, there is not enough clearance, and the countersink for the flathead screw is at the wrong included angle. In addition, the head of the screw barely fits inside the hole. This could be causing the receiver to strip. Were any of these issues addressed in the new part?

Thanks,
Robert

[FineLineAuto]

Nate,

Thanks for the update on the changes. They look like they will be helpful.

Regarding change #3 above, I have found that the tensioning screw runs into the head of the flathead screw that holds the tensioner receiver to the main plate. On my machine, there is not enough clearance, and the countersink for the flathead screw is at the wrong included angle. In addition, the head of the screw barely fits inside the hole. This could be causing the receiver to strip. Were any of these issues addressed in the new part?

Thanks,
Robert

Robert,

The steel parts have a countersink that is wider and deeper to address those issues. It should be an 82 degree countersink.

[beltramidave]

Nate,
Glad to see that you are continually making improvements. When can existing owners expect to receive the rack spacers?
Dave