C3 Tech/Performance V8 Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine, Basic Tech and Maintenance for the C3 Corvette
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by:

Borgeson Steering Question

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Sep 14, 2014 | 09:30 PM
  #1  
JoeC427's Avatar
JoeC427
Thread Starter
Drifting
20 Year Member
Liked
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,620
Likes: 7
From: Orlando Florida
Default Borgeson Steering Question

Hello--
I have a 75 Corvette that I have installed a BBC into it. I want to convert the steering over to the Borgeson steering box. Can anyone tell me if this is the correct part number to order?

GENUINE BORGESON POWER STEERING CONVERSION KIT FOR 67-82 CHEVY CORVETTE 999032

I already have the Saginaw pump, lines, new front control arms, pressure lines from VB&P.

Do I need any other parts to complete this project?

I found the Borgeson kit on eBay. Here is the information:

Power Steering Conversion Kit

This is a GENUINE BORGESON power steering conversion kit. These steering components are built in the USA to the absolute highest standards. Guaranteed highest quality available.

1967-1982 Corvette complete power steering conversion kit. For cars with factory style power steering and a 1"-48 spline column (Factory power steering on these cars was actually "power assist" - control valve and ram cylinder style).

Power Steering Conversion - Vehicles with Factory Style Power Steering and 1 inch 48 spline column

*IT IS VERY IMPORTANT to measure your steering column shaft. This is for 1" diameter 48 spline. If you need a different size, see our eBay store.

*Important* Please use the above information to determine if the part(s) in this listing fit your vehicle. Do not rely on the eBay 'compatibility' feature.

Is there a Corvette Forum Vendor that provides any discounts on these kits?

I also plan to change the steering column over to an Ididit or a Flaming River, but have not found one that lists for a 75.

Thanks in advance,

Joe
Reply
Old Sep 15, 2014 | 05:20 AM
  #2  
terrys6t8roadster's Avatar
terrys6t8roadster
Melting Slicks
10 Year Member
 
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,192
Likes: 343
From: Allenton Wisconsin
Default

If during you're planning on changing the steering column, your original column is collapsible in case of an accident. If this is important to you make sure your aftermarket column offers this feature. Does the kit include a Pitman arm and a draglink? These parts would be for a manual steer car and are different than a P/S car. T
Reply
Old Sep 15, 2014 | 06:51 AM
  #3  
mikep3's Avatar
mikep3
Burning Brakes
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 992
Likes: 56
From: Baldwinsville, NY
Default

http://www.amazon.com/Borgeson-999032-Power-Steering-Kit/dp/B004A6BBRG

I did a surch on the net for the 999032 and Summitt and Jegs had that number for about 700. All the kits are for cars with ps pump, box, rag joint, pitman arm, hoses and drag link are in the kits.
Reply
Old Sep 15, 2014 | 08:25 PM
  #4  
72LS1Vette's Avatar
72LS1Vette
Safety Car
20 Year Member
 
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 4,883
Likes: 11
From: North Easton Mass
Default

Your biggest concern is the rag joint if you are thinking of changing steering columns. The Pittman arm transfers from your original steering box to the Borgeson box. There is no drag link included with the kit. There is an adapter that replaces the control valve, and the hoses in the kit replace the original hoses from the pump to the control valve.

I did the conversion a few months ago and I couldn't be happier with the result.



Rick B.
Reply
Old Sep 15, 2014 | 10:22 PM
  #5  
JoeC427's Avatar
JoeC427
Thread Starter
Drifting
20 Year Member
Liked
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,620
Likes: 7
From: Orlando Florida
Default

Originally Posted by 72LS1Vette
Your biggest concern is the rag joint if you are thinking of changing steering columns. The Pittman arm transfers from your original steering box to the Borgeson box. There is no drag link included with the kit. There is an adapter that replaces the control valve, and the hoses in the kit replace the original hoses from the pump to the control valve.

I did the conversion a few months ago and I couldn't be happier with the result.



Rick B.
Thanks for all the reply's: I should start a poll, but I'm really on the fence with this mod. The Borgeson box upgrade has been getting rave reviews, but my car is really a retro-rod and I like the idea of freeing up some space on the drivers side of the car near the headers. I'm changing to a 31/2 collector Hooker Super Comp Headers and I 'm not really sure just how close they will be to the steering box. The Steroids kit which is twice the cost, uses a rag joint and eliminates the steering box. Anyone running a big block with the Borgeson box, or should I just save a few more buck and get the Steroids rack and pinion?

Joe
Reply
Old Sep 15, 2014 | 10:45 PM
  #6  
mac79vette's Avatar
mac79vette
Pro
10 Year Member
 
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 582
Likes: 9
Default

I can not answer the fitment question about the borg box and a big block but I can offer my thought on the conversion. I got my box from Van Steel and they were very helpful in offering advice and information. It all went together really well and I love the road feel and also the quicker steering. No more wondering and dead spot in the center of the steering that most C3 corvettes have.
Reply
Old Sep 16, 2014 | 03:08 AM
  #7  
WESCH's Avatar
WESCH
Melting Slicks
25 Year Member
Conversation Starter
All Eyes On Me
 
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 3,330
Likes: 13
From: Europe , Luxembourg
Default

Hi

A friend of me has the Borgeson beside it's HOOKER big block headers.

It does fit, but the gap between the box and headers is marginal.

But he managed tom install a sheet metal between both in the hope to keep some heat away from the box.

Rgds. Günther
Reply
Old Sep 16, 2014 | 03:44 AM
  #8  
aussiejohn's Avatar
aussiejohn
Drifting
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 1,944
Likes: 20
From: The only Corvettes in Highett Victoria
Default Smart move!!!

Joe,

With a factory power (assist) steering, you do not need the pump, but will need either a Borgeson Drag Link Adapter #990002 or a Manual drag link from a non-power steer car. You DO need these parts:-

The steering box #800108,

Hose Kit #925103,

Rag Joint #055043 IF you are keeping your original column/shaft.

As others said, you keep your original Pitman arm and therefore retain all of the factory designed linkages.

If you want to change your steering column, you NEED a collapsible one to keep your car legal. It is probably an offence in most states to remove such a vital safety item, it is in Australia.

Trouble is, I'm not aware of anyone making a tilt or collapsible column/shaft for a C3, so you might have to stay original there. If you have any further questions, ring Jeff at Borgeson on 1-860-482-8283. What he doesn't know about these kits is not worth knowing.

Regards from Down Under.

aussiejohn
Reply
Corvette Stories

The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts

story-0

2027 Corvette vs The World: Every Model vs Closest Competitor

 Joe Kucinski
story-1

10 Most Common Corvette Problems of the Last 20 Years!

 Joe Kucinski
story-2

5 MOST and 5 LEAST Popular Corvette Model Years in History!

 Joe Kucinski
story-3

2027 Corvette Buyer's Guide: Everything You Need to Know!

 Joe Kucinski
story-4

10 Things C8 Corvette Owners Hate (But Won't Tell You)

 Joe Kucinski
story-5

10 Best Corvettes Coming to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2026!

 Brett Foote
story-6

Every Corvette Grand Sport Explained! (C2, C4, C6, C7, & C8)

 Joe Kucinski
story-7

Grand Sport & Grand Sport X Launch Alongside All-New 535hp LS6 V8!

 Michael S. Palmer
story-8

5 Reasons Bad Drivers Crash & 5 Ways to Avoid a Costly Mistake!

 Joe Kucinski
story-9

7 Bolt-On Upgrades From Extreme Online Store to Level Up Your C6 Corvette

 Pouria Savadkouei
Old Sep 16, 2014 | 07:44 AM
  #9  
WESCH's Avatar
WESCH
Melting Slicks
25 Year Member
Conversation Starter
All Eyes On Me
 
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 3,330
Likes: 13
From: Europe , Luxembourg
Default

Hi

Ididit has a 68 tilt steering column http://www.ididitinc.com/retrofit-st...rvette_Retr-34 , but I don't know if it's collapsible in case of accident.

68 original tele columns are available once in a while.

Rgds. Günther
Reply
Old Sep 17, 2014 | 08:57 PM
  #10  
JoeC427's Avatar
JoeC427
Thread Starter
Drifting
20 Year Member
Liked
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,620
Likes: 7
From: Orlando Florida
Default

Originally Posted by WESCH
Hi

Ididit has a 68 tilt steering column http://www.ididitinc.com/retrofit-st...rvette_Retr-34 , but I don't know if it's collapsible in case of accident.

68 original tele columns are available once in a while.

Rgds. Günther
Just a final update. I did research the Borgeson Box and for the money, it is the best solution. I also looked at Steroid R&P and that kit is also well engineered. Then I contacted Flaming River and there new R&P is really cool because the brackets are already welded to the rack and it will install without any flex. In conclusion, I decided to go with a Flaming River FR30005-BK Steering Column, FRCA108 installation kit, and finally a FR312KT Manual Rack and Pinion. This will free up a lot of space on the drivers side for my larger headers and I'm only running 3 1/2 wide rims and MT Tires on the front, and this rack also allows for some additional clearance because my oil pan on the 582 BBC is about an inch deeper up front near the balancer. I'm hoping this will be the right choice. After all my 75 is a straight line car, and from what I've read hear on the forum, a lot of guys like there manual steering. No more leaks or Saginaw pump to deal with. Thanks for all the reply's. I will post some pics and shoot a video when I get it all installed.



Joe
Reply
Old Sep 18, 2014 | 07:23 AM
  #11  
Gordonm's Avatar
Gordonm
Race Director
25 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 19,610
Likes: 778
From: Forked River NJ
Default

If you are only doing mostly drag racing then a manual rack will be fine. You won't have any problems with it and no leaks and it will free up some room. I have had the stock system, Steeroids, and now run the Borgeson box. The Borgeson by far gives you the most room under the car but it may interfere on the side of the motor. The Flaming river rack will give plenty of header clearance.
Reply
Old Sep 18, 2014 | 10:53 PM
  #12  
JoeC427's Avatar
JoeC427
Thread Starter
Drifting
20 Year Member
Liked
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,620
Likes: 7
From: Orlando Florida
Default

Originally Posted by Gordonm
If you are only doing mostly drag racing then a manual rack will be fine. You won't have any problems with it and no leaks and it will free up some room. I have had the stock system, Steeroids, and now run the Borgeson box. The Borgeson by far gives you the most room under the car but it may interfere on the side of the motor. The Flaming river rack will give plenty of header clearance.
Thanks Gordonm, I really appreciate the info. This is my first manual rack and pinion. I'm very curious to see how well it drives on the street. The skinny front rims and tires should allow it to turn fairly well.

Take care,

Joe
Reply
Old Aug 4, 2017 | 06:52 PM
  #13  
live4corvette's Avatar
live4corvette
Intermediate
 
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 43
Likes: 1
Default Need help

I just installed a Borgeson conversion on my 68 that was a manual steering car. I removed the steering damper per some other threads I read. After new tires and front end alignment, the steering is horrible. The car will not stay straight and there is entirely too much play in the wheel. Do I need the steering damper? Any other ideas?
Reply
Old Aug 4, 2017 | 08:07 PM
  #14  
Metalhead140's Avatar
Metalhead140
Drifting
 
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 1,939
Likes: 476
From: NSW, Australia
C3 of Year Finalist (track prepared) 2019
Default

Probably should start a new thread, but that is definitely not right. How was the steering before? You must either have something loose or something worn out, have you checked idler arm, tie rod ends? Is your rear suspension in good order?
Reply
Old Aug 4, 2017 | 08:17 PM
  #15  
live4corvette's Avatar
live4corvette
Intermediate
 
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 43
Likes: 1
Default

Originally Posted by Metalhead140
Probably should start a new thread, but that is definitely not right. How was the steering before? You must either have something loose or something worn out, have you checked idler arm, tie rod ends? Is your rear suspension in good order?


I replaced the entire front bushing set, ball joints, tie rods, springs, shocks, rear spring, rear shocks, and all bushing except trailing arm bushings. I did not replace the idler arm, but I will check to see if there is play. The steering and suspension was horrible when I bought it, so I replaced everything including the power steering. The suspension and ride feel better, but the steering is horrible.


Do I need the steering damper? I did not put it back on when I replaced everything.


What should a call the new thread to get attention? I will also take some pictures to post along with the thread.
Reply
Old Aug 5, 2017 | 12:40 AM
  #16  
mac79vette's Avatar
mac79vette
Pro
10 Year Member
 
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 582
Likes: 9
Default

Originally Posted by live4corvette
I replaced the entire front bushing set, ball joints, tie rods, springs, shocks, rear spring, rear shocks, and all bushing except trailing arm bushings. I did not replace the idler arm, but I will check to see if there is play. The steering and suspension was horrible when I bought it, so I replaced everything including the power steering. The suspension and ride feel better, but the steering is horrible.


Do I need the steering damper? I did not put it back on when I replaced everything.


What should a call the new thread to get attention? I will also take some pictures to post along with the thread.
Make sure that the steering coupler/rag joint is secure. The set screw has to seat in the flat of the shaft that comes out of the gear box. Its been a few years but I think there is a small divot on that shaft. When I first installed my box the set screw was tight but not seated and I had a similar problem.
Reply
Old Aug 5, 2017 | 05:08 AM
  #17  
terrys6t8roadster's Avatar
terrys6t8roadster
Melting Slicks
10 Year Member
 
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,192
Likes: 343
From: Allenton Wisconsin
Default

[QUOTE=live4corvette;1595292562]I just installed a Borgeson conversion on my 68 that was a manual steering car. I removed the steering damper per some other threads I read. After new tires and front end alignment, the steering is horrible. The car will not stay straight and there is entirely too much play in the wheel. Do I need the steering damper? Any other ideas?[/QUOTE.

After the Borg install you need a lot more caster than with manual steering. Not enough positive caster will result in the car wandering all over the place. 68s are the only manual steer C-3s to have that steer damper, P/S cars do not use them. As for the play, have a helper slowly rock the steer wheel back and forth just he distance of play while you inspect the linkage for slop. Depending on the vendor your steer gear came from, it might be a rebuilt, it may need adjustment, mine did. Is the ball socket adjusted properly? T
Reply
Old Aug 6, 2017 | 08:23 PM
  #18  
live4corvette's Avatar
live4corvette
Intermediate
 
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 43
Likes: 1
Default

[QUOTE=terrys6t8roadster;1595294894]
Originally Posted by live4corvette
I just installed a Borgeson conversion on my 68 that was a manual steering car. I removed the steering damper per some other threads I read. After new tires and front end alignment, the steering is horrible. The car will not stay straight and there is entirely too much play in the wheel. Do I need the steering damper? Any other ideas?[/QUOTE.

After the Borg install you need a lot more caster than with manual steering. Not enough positive caster will result in the car wandering all over the place. 68s are the only manual steer C-3s to have that steer damper, P/S cars do not use them. As for the play, have a helper slowly rock the steer wheel back and forth just he distance of play while you inspect the linkage for slop. Depending on the vendor your steer gear came from, it might be a rebuilt, it may need adjustment, mine did. Is the ball socket adjusted properly? T


Thanks for the info Terry and thanks for all of your other posts. I am going to start a new thread with pictures of what I have done
Reply

Get notified of new replies

To Borgeson Steering Question





All times are GMT -4. The time now is 11:05 AM.

story-0
2027 Corvette vs The World: Every Model vs Closest Competitor

Slideshow: 2027 Corvette lineup vs the world.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-20 17:58:41


VIEW MORE
story-1
10 Most Common Corvette Problems of the Last 20 Years!

Slideshow: 10 major Corvette problems from the last 20 years.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-14 16:37:05


VIEW MORE
story-2
5 MOST and 5 LEAST Popular Corvette Model Years in History!

Slideshow: 5 most and least popular Corvette model years.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-08 13:25:01


VIEW MORE
story-3
2027 Corvette Buyer's Guide: Everything You Need to Know!

Slideshow: 2027 Corvette buyer's guide

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-17 16:41:08


VIEW MORE
story-4
10 Things C8 Corvette Owners Hate (But Won't Tell You)

Slideshow: 10 things C8 Corvette owners hate, but won't tell you.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-04-01 18:36:07


VIEW MORE
story-5
10 Best Corvettes Coming to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2026!

Slideshow: Should you add one of these incredible Corvettes to your garage?

By Brett Foote | 2026-04-01 18:14:05


VIEW MORE
story-6
Every Corvette Grand Sport Explained! (C2, C4, C6, C7, & C8)

Slideshow: Every Corvette Grand Sport explained

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-03-26 07:13:44


VIEW MORE
story-7
Grand Sport & Grand Sport X Launch Alongside All-New 535hp LS6 V8!

Slideshow: Breaking down the 2027 Grand Sport, Grand Sport X, Stingray, and LS6 V8.

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-03-26 13:48:45


VIEW MORE
story-8
5 Reasons Bad Drivers Crash & 5 Ways to Avoid a Costly Mistake!

Slideshow: 5 reasons bad drivers crash sports cars & 5 ways to avoid a costly shame!

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-03-25 16:32:55


VIEW MORE
story-9
7 Bolt-On Upgrades From Extreme Online Store to Level Up Your C6 Corvette

Slideshow: Check out these easy-to-install upgrades from Extreme Online Store that reshape the look and feel of the C6 Corvette.

By Pouria Savadkouei | 2026-03-23 17:00:27


VIEW MORE