rajin cajin

A quick search and I found most threads talk about adding power steering. I'm rebuilding my front suspension and deleting the power steering (most components were missing when I got the car and I'm not a fan of it anyway). It was previously driven with the power steering valve not hooked up to any hoses. Question is, can I get the non-PS relay rod to replace the power steering valve on the end of the center link?? I assume the two center links (PS and Non-PS) are the same?? And if so, is the steering box pitman arm the same or does it have to be replaced?? Any info is appreciated.

David Mc

I think they are the same.

Hate is a strong word, but I hated driving my manual steering Vette. P/S now.

leadfoot88

Sorry I can't help other than to say I don't have power steering but I wouldn't have it any other way. So worth the simplicity to have a little more effort in parking lots. On the road it's a dream to drive.

ENCSDOUG

Without PS my wife would not be able to drive with a 14" steering wheel. So much easier specially with the steroid RP upgrade.

'75

THe manual relay rod is different than the PS rod. The manual has a ball stud joint and the PS rod is threaded so the valve can attach. So you will need the complete manual relay rod. Another option is from Borgeson, they offer a ball stud joint that replaces the steering valve on the end of the rod and will attach to the pitman arm.

Peterbuilt

Yes, you can replace the p/s relay rod with a NON p/s one.
or you can buy an adaptor.
Remove the PSCV and screw on the adapter.

You will need a NON p/s pitman arm
and change the tie rod ends to the other hole.

carriljc

I added PS to mine. If I were to do it nowadays I'd do the Borgesen conversion......but I'd do it.

And FYI, the Relay rod and Pitman arm are different.

TheSkunkWorks

While you're at it, replace the idler with an HD one if not already done recently. I also suggest reducing positive caster to ~2* (on both sides) as a baseline from which to work while figuring out what compromise between responsiveness and stability best suits your particular tires and individual preferences. FWIW, the difference between the two steering ratio settings in the knuckles (if available to you) is ~15%. Oh, and don't let anyone talk you into an asymmetric alignment on a sportscar unless countering road crown is a bigger priority than handling. My $.02

rajin cajin

Thanks guys. Sounds like the adapter is the cheapest and easiest route.

buns

^ I would think so, too.
Borgeson # 99002

carriljc

with this adapter?

I guess you'd be partially along the way to a borgesen box in case you dislike manual steering -- so it sounds like a way to go.

rajin cajin

Ordered the manual drag link adapter from Borgeson this morning. Thanks for all the info.

rajin cajin

Tech on phone told me use existing PS pitman arm.

Torqued Off

I just removed the entire power steering from my 77, and installed all factory manual steering components. Its a world of difference in a very positive way, much better steering without all that freeplay. AND, I left the steering on same ratio as power i.e the forward hole on the steering arm, AND I still have the same caster in the front alignment as I did with power, which is 3.0 plus I challenge anyone to tell me it is too hard to steer.

I really expected it to be hard to steer based on all the whining on this forum about it, and frankly, the only thing it did was IMPROVE handling with no downside. If anyone really believes it is too hard to steer, I only have a few things to say about you, .......but I won't. Use your imagination.

rcread

You backed off your original statement?

Torqued Off

Yeah, some people get things all wadded up if you say the wrong thing.....our modern age of sensitivity and other weaknesses.

rajin cajin

A Dress!! LOL... I've been driving for 2 years with the power steering control valve not connected. Shoot, I've deleted the AC, pulled the auto transmission and threw a 4 speed in its place. Just getting the front end done right with the rebuild.

The13Bats

I wont get all dbag and insult people who like one way over the other,

My 66 didnt have power anything, daily driver and i simply dont recall that car being hard to steer, after i adjusted the steering box it was sweet

My 69 has power steering and the parts are supposed to all be new and fresh according to 1960fi george who sold me the chassis,

However, if they leak i am going with gm manual steering parts, and not be at all concerned about missing the creature comforts of the leak prone cantankerous c3 power steering system,

Non power steering also plays along with my build theme.

Torqued Off

[QUOTE=The13Bats;1594711589]I wont get all dbag and insult people who like one way over the other,

Well, you just did. Anyways, I really don't care. I was raised in a time when everyone is not a "victim" and banter among men was common, and understood for what it is.

The car now handles like a sports car should, with real road feel. I have a Gary Ramadei rebuilt steering box, factory manual steering, fast ratio hole, and 255/60/R15 tires, at plus 3.0 caster, 77 14 inch steering wheel. And it is fun to drive now, rather than that loose and erratic power steering.....and I can handle the parking lot issues, but yeah, that's me.

Torqued Off

SWEET, very nice!