Front axle (brake) torque reaction cable modification

[Duncan M]

While the Panhard rod gets a lot of attention on the TC front end, I'm curious what anyone may know about the "brake torque reaction" cable Mike Sherrell shows on page 120 of TC's Forever. He says it follows similar lines as the factory SA Saloon. He discusses it briefly on page 119.

John Thornley also mentions something similar (Maintaining the Breed) on page 63 discussing the K-3 model. "The erratic steering was overcome by altering the lay of the front axle torque reaction cables. These had been fitted, to restrict the axle movement under heavy braking conditions, from the chassis frame to top of the swivel pins. It appeared that, when cornering, they constrained the axle in an oblique direction, which was undesirable. Brackets were made so that the cables lay parallel to the chassis frame and steering was pronounced satisfactory."

The picture in TC's Forever appears to be, more or less, what the K-3 setup was changed to, as described by Thornley.
Sorry, pic is sideways.

While braking is mentioned, I would think the cables would also help keep the axle from moving (on one side) during heavy cornering? Thoughts?

thumbnail (9).jpg (28.94 KiB) Viewed 3270 times

[Steve Simmons]

The big saloons did have this and it's supposed to make a difference. I've always thought about doing it on my TC since I drive it so hard. But I also wonder if the result would be worth the effort. The SA is a much heavier car with a taller axle and bigger brakes. So it stands to reason that the cables would make a larger difference there than on a TC. I've seen guys do cables in racing situations, and I've seen a couple road-going TABCs with cables but I've never driven one. When I'm braking hard on a canyon road, there have been times where it felt like the springs were winding up under the torque. But it's hard to say if that was actually happening or if it was in my head.

[Duncan M]

So is the idea to keep the top of the axle from "folding" forward, which I suppose would also increase caster while it is happening, as well as having an odd effect on the leaf springs?

[TheRedCigar]

We have both a panhard rod and the axle cables as well. Both add to nice crisp turn in and a stable front end under braking. Cable can be seen here slightly loosened. We are thinking of upgrading to a solid rod as they do get loose after a while. Downside is that on full lock, they do rub.

[Duncan M]

Interesting. Appears the cable attaches to top of swivels somehow, similar to the system Thornley warns against on the K3. However, you also have the Panhard rod, so the "oblique" forces in cornering are not an issue.

[Franz]

Saw this cable on a lot of MG at Mille Miglia and GP Nuvolari in Italy, now I know what it is for.


Franz

[Ray White]

That paintwork is so shiny; at first, I had trouble in working out what I was looking at!!

[Graeme Louk]

Torque reaction were fitted to Q Types as standard. Photo is Genuine Q Type

[mengels]

Does anyone know if a modification kit of such a torque reaction cable can be purchased?....I've seen some on internet pictures that look like they were not home brew....
Thanks!
Maarten

[Steve Simmons]

I'm not aware of a ready made kit for TABC cars, but it wouldn't be difficult to fabricate. You only need to know the total length, then subtract the length of your chosen hardware. The rest is steel cable. I'd say the longer the better to account for angle change as the axle moves up and down. I would also contact Steve Baker in the UK. He may be able to help.

[craig.cootsona]

I used them on my TA special and can feel them engage with moderate braking force. I read that they should be adjusted with about 1/2" of deflection in the center to provide a little slack for suspension movement. My cables and brackets came from Steve Baker in the UK who supplies many parts for standard and special-bodied cars. The bracket around the axle is a bit tricky but not too difficult to make if you get the dimensions for the offsets. For the rear brackets, it is important to select chassis mounting location carefully to avoid fouling the bonnet landings and also to ensure the holes end up in accessable locations!

Photos posted on the thread here: http://www.mgexp.com/forum/t-series-and ... le.462809/

Best regards,
Craig

[mengels]

Thanks all,

I contacted Steve Baker in the UK....and I agree, if not ready available as a kit, it's not so difficult to fabricate it myself.....but in this case I will try the "easy option" first...