My 97 XK8 has some problem with the reach mechanism in the steering column and has a broken drive cable. A shop that worked on the car previously deduced that the column reach mechanism was seized and recommended replacing the column. I have another column from another 97 but I understand it is critical that the clockspring be centered when it goes into the car. Well, this "new column" has been out of a parts car for a few years and I have no idea if the clock spring is centered now or whatever

Is there a procedure to set up the clockspring/clumn so it's oriented straight ahead to make sure turning it later won't cause damage?

 

This is a good one. I remember learning about the clockspring the first time I removed the steering wheel to solder a lose wire on the base of turn signal.

I just looked at the entire section on the steering wheel and there is no mention of it. Since I cant recall where I learned about it and it's not mentioned in the 1997 workshop book, maybe you could say a little more about the issue?

Are you saying that the clockspring winds one way or another as the wheel is turned, assumption its tied to shaft, so you want to be sure its centered when connecting the shaft to the universal joint?

That was just a guess, please tell us more, add photos?

John