Warning ! Possible steering crush cage failure
Rusty mentioned the "crash basket" aka crush cage on the steering column.. I have hit on this topic before but I will again . A lot of the Speedsters utilize used VW Beetle steering columns which is all well and fine. However I have had two crush cage factory welds fail and both times I was barely moving welds. I found that in both cars someone had put upward pressure on the column as it was secured to the 2 x 2 brace under the dash. Over time rotating the steering column, this caused the crush cage to weaken, weld cracked and suddenly w/o any warning broke......I strongly suggest everyone spend time to inspect there columns. Jack the car up and remove the LF wheel with a good light in hand , sand the welds etc looking for any cracks if discovered have it repaired before driving the car anywhere without exception.