Whilst doing some other work I’ve noticed that the rubber disc in the steering coupler on my RS2000 doesn’t look too flash. It seems to be a bit perished with a few small cracks appearing and definitely not straight and flat like the one shown in my Haynes manual. If the disc fails when you are driving, can the coupler seperate in the car ?
Are the couplers still available new or am I better off replacing the disc itself with an aftermarket one. I’ve seen that there are quite a few different brands available on eBay. Can anyone recommend which brand might be best. I also noted that there were a few aftermarket complete couplers available. Would these we worth considering rather than just replacing the disc.
Regards,
Paul

I'd buy the complete unit. The discs are riveted in and it may be more hassle than its worth finding the appropriate rivets and installing. Original rubber types would be my choice, nolathanes can be a bit harsh.
Not sure if the spline sizes are different between the years and marks, maybe someone could confirm... just in case...
Cheers Drew
 

I agree with Drew re: the rubber ones - the nolathane ones have been known to break into pieces, which could be catastrophic. Check out this link:
 
http://www.classic-ford.org/cfp/tm.aspx?m=42253
 
I've seen these replaced by cutting down some thick rubber that has layers of fabric within it for strength.
 
Incidentally, neither of mine are flat either, and nor would I really expect them to be given the twisting forces and other general movement they are subjected to.

IMO :-go gp4 coupling and sharpen the steering. What harshness?
SFE

Yep, SFE has the right idea.. For about $50 the grp4 coupling is by far the best way to go .

I've had a nolathane one destroy it's self and lucky I was on a backstreet going slow at the time, the steering had about 90deg of travel before the tyres turned , and on a quickrack that's lots of turn !

Hi martymexico,
Is this the same coupler as yours or is there another brand you'd recommend.

Yes that's the type with no bush to fail. The above pictured is the cheaper pressed steel version vs the more expensive cast one. Both do the same job, same splines both ends & suits both mk1 & 2 Escys. I've run 2 of the cast ones in my cars 20+ years with no issues. Although I am carefull not to drown the universal joint in degreaser and I can't comment on the quality of the splines in the cheaper version.
SFE

Hi SFE,
Would this be a better one ?

I've noticed there seems to be long and short versions of the steering coupler available. Which would be the best one to use for an Australia RS2000.
Paul

This is the type I use, the short 'cast' version. Available from various suppliers, this picture copied from the Burton site. There is plenty of spline on the bottom of the steering column so I guess you could use the long version too. I'm guessing that the long version might be more suited to a rally WCXM with lowered rack mounts though. 
SFE