BDVT69

What is the difference in steering box's for the 68/69 manuall and the 69-82 power. Is it just the pitman arm?

68/70Vette

I converted my manual steering 68 to power steering, and the steering box didn't have to be changed. I've seen conversion kits for sale and there's no requirement to change the steering box. Very sure the steering box can be used for either application.

redvetracr

nothing...the difference is the center link (drag link/relay rod) and the pittman are.
....redvetracr

markdtn

As stated above, there is no real difference in the boxes. There is a slight difference in input shaft between 68-69 and 70-82. If you use the approptiate rag joint, either will interchange.

BDVT69

What is the torque spec's for the pitman arm nut to the steering box. There is no mention of this in my AIM manuall.

68/70Vette

The AIM manual for a 68 quotes 120 to 160 foot pounds. (Drawing UPC 9/A2. The drawing title is "Steering Gear and Linkage."

Jim Shea

My early Chevrolet shop manuals (1968 and 1971) show the pitman shaft nut torque as 140 ft-lbs. A later Chevrolet shop manual (1975) and a 1966-79 Corvette manual specify 185 ft-lbs. My Corvette AIM sheets for 1975 and 1976 show a nominal of (185 ft-lbs.)

I would use the 185 ft-lb spec since I am quite sure that the gear and nut did not change through the years. Chevrolet must have been more comfortable with the higher torque spec.
Jim

BDVT69

Yep, I found it now that you gave a reference page. It is kind of tucked away in the drawing. Thanks !

I'm going with Jim's advice and torqing to the 185 ft/lbs.

GTR1999

I torque them to 150 ft/lbs, I set them to 140 without a problem. 180 is a bit high so be careful you don't stress the box loading it up.