A good Tiger front end is not cheap................Thanks for the reply. No I’m not particularly looking for originality I thought about just modifying the alpine cross member but I thought I would try the lazy route first. I like the idea of using the Miata rack but I’m curious what it would take to do the work ( what tie rod ends,universal for the steering column etc..) I have the correct Tiger steering column to use.
I've done a couple.. once you have a jig it's pretty straightforward.We still convert them but the shop/bench welding costs can be attention getting. The jig for keeping things straight and in the correct location is critical. just sayin'
I have 2 sets of the "Dale" style Spridget rack mounts + tie rod L/R couplers c/w MBG steering arms if you decide to go that way. You will need the rack and 2 LH Alpine tie rod ends.I have a couple Tiger crossmembers. one is pretty damaged from front impact and the other is pretty rusty. BUT, either would provide the parts to convert your Alpine crossmember and a template/pattern for doing so.
The sprite/midget rack will work but is substantially faster geared. 1 3/4 lock to lock if I remember correctly. It will require mounting blocks, couplers for the tie rods and uses either a pait of LH end or RH ends. The kit used to sold by Dale's but isn't available now. The kit also used MGB steering arms in place if the OE parts. the Ackerman issues still persist, but aren't as bad. steering is very heavy at slow speeds and can be twitchy at hi speed (over 90)
as for price, comparatively cheap... shipping would be expensive depending on where you're located
I have 2 sets of the "Dale" style Spridget rack mounts + tie rod L/R couplers c/w MBG steering arms if you decide to go that way. You will need the rack and 2 LH Alpine tie rod ends.
The last set I milled a shoulder on the adapter block to move the rack rearward to help with Ackerman.
Assuming that you have got this far Algerising, you must have some fabrication skills. As Sean says it is not that difficult to convert an Alpine crossmember, and while you are at it move the rack rearward to address Ackerman. If you do not have the knowledge, skills, or can be bothered to make a jig, have Sean (Austin Healer) do one for you.
Any "good" Tiger crossmenber you buy most likely will have sagged shock towers by now and will need fixed, so just as easy, if not easier, to do that during the conversion process. Factor the sagging tower cost into the overall equation
yes the Spridget rack is quick for the street. The MX5 rack. ratio sits between the Spridget and Tiger