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TA22 Celica Rack and Pinion conversion


For as good as TA22 Celicas can perform and look a massive long running disappointment for many has been the vague "truck like" steering. Now only is there a complete vagueness in use these are difficult and expensive to maintain. This kit not only provides a drop in upgrade it gives the crossmember a set of A series compatible engine mounts. Both 16 and 20V 4age engines are compatiable.




Use and Fitment:

This conversion is a modification of the original steering column and a complete replacement of the original crossmember. The original steering column is removed, original steering box and all it's linkages along with the original crossmember are permanently removed and the new custom crossmember is put into it's place with the original bolts.  The steering columns are modified on an exchange basic before being bolted back into the vehicle. The short steering shaft from the column to the rack is supplied however about 15mm needs to be trimmed off it with a grinder for it to fit.

All the of the new parts are still fully serviceable with genuine Toyota parts and the complete conversion is a bolt in job with no body/frame modifications at all.



Shown below is an example of a modified crossmember, this is however a prototype and hence looks rougher than one of the usual conversions.
One side of the crossmember, showing the custom made raised ends.

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Installed into place this crossmember looks and fits like an original part.

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Shown fitted with a 20V engine and a W series gearbox.

(Click on image to zoom in)




Construction of the Custom Crossmember:

This custom part is originally based on a crossmember off a later model Toyota, this is put into an elaborate jig in which it is shortened and new end mounts made. The new end mounts have integral crush tubes and feature a heavy gauge triangulated reinforced design that should please any automotive engineer. The engine mounts are also modified and relocated with a bracket off the jig, which is Dependant on what engine/gearbox combination is used. The bottom of the crossmember height is identical to the original so the ground clearance is maintained.



Suspension and Steering Geometry:
Once converted the suspension geometry in regard to bump steering is identical to what Toyota originally designed. This means no unwanted steering movements, this is guaranteed. The lower control arm mounting points are however further apart. This means that there is a camber gain to approximately -1.5 degrees. While this is ideal for many drivers shorter lower control arms or adjustable strut tops can be used to compensate if desired.



Engine and Gearbox Compatibility:

These are the mounts that are currently available:


- A series engine with either a 16V or 20V 4AGE and either with a T50 or W series gearbox (W55 to 58) conversion.

- T series engine with original gearbox in original position



Gearbox Mount Compatibility:

If a T50 gearbox is used behind either of the 4A engines then the original TA22 gearbox mount can be used without any modification. However the original mount will be required to be modified to suit if a W box (W55 to 58) conversion is used.



Price:

- Conversion to suit a 4AGE 20V with T50/W55 to 58 gearbox: $850, or $750 if a compatiable crossmember and rack are supplied.

- T series engine mounts: $880, or $780 if a compatiable crossmember and rack are supplied.

- Converted crossmember ready to bolt in but bare without engine mounts: $750, or $650 if a compatiable crossmember and rack are supplied.


These prices includes the complete drop in crossmember with a used steering rack and boots in unknown condition, steering column to rack shaft with universal joints and the steering column modified on an exchange basis. Postage in not included in the price.