Is your MGB’s steering column lock giving you trouble? You’re not alone. From the introduction of steering column locks, binding issues have been a known problem, often leaving drivers struggling to turn the key. The good news is, you don’t necessarily need to replace the entire unit. This guide, brought to you by the experts at keyfobprog.com, will walk you through a detailed, DIY-friendly workaround to fix a Binding Steering Column Lock on your MGB, getting you back on the road with minimal hassle.
The root cause of a sticky steering column lock in MGBs is frequently the lock plunger getting stuck in the steering shaft recess. Before considering a full replacement, there’s a simple initial step you can try. Apply gentle but firm pressure to the key as if you’re trying to turn it to the off position while simultaneously wiggling the steering wheel back and forth. Often, this maneuver is enough to free the key and allow you to remove it. However, if this doesn’t work, or if the lock tumbler itself is worn out, a more hands-on approach is required.
Interestingly, this issue was so prevalent even in nearly new MGBs that the manufacturer proactively addressed it. Dealers were provided with small aluminum plates designed to be installed between the lock plunger and the column housing opening. This ingenious fix effectively prevented the plunger from engaging and causing the steering to lock unexpectedly – a potentially dangerous scenario that the factory was keen to avoid lawsuits over. This proactive recall highlights the common nature of the problem and the effectiveness of a preventative measure.
While that factory fix is no longer readily available, our guide provides a similar, effective solution you can implement yourself. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to resolve your binding MGB steering column lock.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your MGB Steering Column Lock
This repair focuses on accessing the steering column lock and implementing a fix to prevent the plunger from binding. Here’s how to do it:
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Lower the Steering Column: Begin by removing the three bolts located above the driver’s knee area. These bolts secure the steering column assembly to the car’s body structure. Removing these will allow you to lower the column for better access.
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Remove the Steering Column Shroud: Next, you’ll need to remove the shroud, which is the plastic cover surrounding the steering column. Locate and remove the two Phillips head machine screws on either side of the shroud. You’ll then encounter two more screws, also Phillips head, hidden by the lower dash. To access these, apply firm downward pressure on the steering wheel. A long (approximately 15-inch) Phillips screwdriver is highly recommended for these hidden screws, allowing for a straighter angle and easier removal.
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Slip off the Shroud: Carefully maneuver the shroud off over the steering column switches. This can be done without disconnecting any of the switches, requiring a bit of finesse.
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Access the Column Lock Straps: Looking down at the steering column lock, you’ll see the upper strap of the lock mechanism. It’s held in place by screws that appear to have completely flat heads. These aren’t standard screws.
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Remove the Flat-Headed Screws: Using a sharp punch or awl and a medium-sized hammer, carefully work these screws counter-clockwise to loosen them. Due to limited space, you’ll need to make contact and dig in at various points around the screw head’s perimeter. Once sufficiently loosened, pliers can be used to fully unscrew and remove them.
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Detach the Lock Bottom: With the screws removed, the top strap will remain in place, and the lower part of the steering column lock assembly will detach and fall away.
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Identify the Plunger Opening: Look upwards from beneath the steering column. You’ll clearly see the opening in the column where the lock plunger engages. This is the area causing the binding.
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Create a Patch: Take a tin can (a thin gauge aluminum can is ideal as it’s easy to shape). Using tin snips, cut out a rectangular piece. Shape this piece to act as a “band-aid” to cover the plunger opening. The aluminum should be pliable enough to allow the lock body protrusion to fit within the housing. Set this patch aside for now.
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Lubricate and Test the Lock: Now focus on the steering column lock itself. Apply lock lubricant liberally to ensure smooth rotation. Work the key in and out, and rotate the lock repeatedly. If the lock remains severely jammed or completely inoperable even after lubrication, replacement might be necessary. However, in most cases, thorough lubrication and key manipulation will restore functionality.
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Prepare and Install the Patch: Once you’re satisfied with the lock’s operation, it’s time to install the patch. Apply a small dab of glue (rubber cement works well) to the patch. This is just to temporarily hold it in position over the plunger opening while you reinstall the lock.
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Reinstall the Lock: Carefully lift the lock back into its position, holding it firmly with one hand. With your other hand, position the top strap and begin threading in the screws. Work back and forth between the screws to ensure even and square alignment. Many MGB models have small dimples and corresponding pimples on the column and lock to aid in correct positioning. Ensure these are engaged.
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Secure and Test: Tighten the screws to secure the lock. Before reassembling the shroud and steering column, test the lock and ignition multiple times to confirm smooth and satisfactory operation.
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Reassemble: Reinstall the shroud and bolt the steering column back into its original position. Reassemble everything in reverse order of disassembly.
Important Considerations:
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Shear Bolts (New Locks): If you are installing a new steering column lock, it will likely come with shear bolts. These are designed to break off at a specific torque, creating a tamper-proof, smooth head, as you encountered when disassembling the original lock. For DIY purposes, and to facilitate easier future removal if needed, it’s recommended not to break off these bolts during installation. Leaving them intact won’t compromise security for typical use.
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Reusing Old Screws: If you are reusing the original flat-headed screws, modify them for easier reinstallation. Use a bench vise to hold each screw by its head and use a hacksaw to cut a slot across the head, wide and deep enough to accommodate a standard flat-blade screwdriver. This modification will make future removals significantly easier.
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Key Ring Weight: A common cause of premature wear in steering column locks, especially older designs, is excessive weight on the key ring. Numerous keys and other items jingling while driving put considerable stress on the ignition key and internal lock tumblers. Minimize the weight on your keyring to prolong the life of your steering column lock.
Conclusion
Fixing a binding steering column lock on your MGB might seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can effectively address the issue without needing professional help. This DIY fix, inspired by the original factory solution, will save you time and money, and get you back to enjoying your classic MGB. Remember to take your time, be patient, and enjoy the process of working on your car.
For more helpful guides and resources for maintaining your MGB and other classic vehicles, visit keyfobprog.com – your trusted source for automotive expertise.
