Some info on Jaguar ifs conversions. On 49Williards ( Bill) recent trip to Calif, He was told that not using the standard Jaguar Z joint in the steering shaft could cause some feedback when encountering a large bump. The Jag subframe uses "metalastic" mounts, or soft mounts, to attach to the frame, which allows some subframe and rack movement during bumps, giving the smoooth Jag ride. The Jag Z joint is designed to compensate for this movement, and after looking over my jag front, I agree that this type of joint is needed. But...I wanted a better way, and just don't like the Z joint. Borgeson responded to my phone call and emailed pictures and had this answer. They said to use their telescoping, double d shaft, with a standard u joint on the rack, and a vibration reducing joint on the column. Debbie at Borgeson said the telescoping shaft will compensate for the movment of the rack, and cost about $250.00. Flaming River may also have a solution. On their website they have the "EZ Fit Shaft", which is a hex shaped, spring loaded, telescoping shaft, made with your choice of u joints. They adverstise it as a solution for trucks with lots of chassis flex, like off roaders. $269.00. I ordered a catalog, and I'll call them next week. Looks like a good solution, but alittle spendy. Bill, what do you think?

 

Rusty, I now have in my possession a Z joint long enough for my needs. I have machine capability in my shop so I plan to just make a coupling 5/8" to 3/4" and weld it to the Z joint shaft (5/8" diameter) and to a stub of the current (3/4" diameter) 10" long shaft which I will cut. My total additional cost will be the shipping cost for Z joint with a longer shaft plus a little lathe time. I kind of like the low friction (almost zero) of the Z joint and I am a little like Bobby (but not his equal) as a cheapskate. In fact I will send the lower u joint in a photo in my Gallery back to Borgeson for a refund. I had gotten a similar proposal for a system from Borgeson. Their system should work.