I recently had the pleasure of installing a Steeroids rack unit on my buddies 71 convertible. This was a car that did not have any power steering prior to the conversion.

In order to complete the conversion, I had to first locate a stock power steering bracket assembly, then I picked up a rebuilt pump from NAPA.

I was also doing many other things in the process, including pulling the motor, trans, etc. etc.

The actual install went very smooth. Dropping the factory parts out was a breeze after removing the driver side header.

The rack unit fits very snug under the car using the stock steering mounting holes.

I ended up grinding some material off the back of the drivers lower A frame and notching out the frame where the drivers side motor mount comes off the main frame rail. It appeared the left tie rod sleeve was going to hit the A frame, and the lower steering coupling U joint was too close to the frame for my comfort.

I think I spent more time making final adjustments to the universal joint assembly and support bearing than anything else.

The unit looks great on the car, works great, and there is SO much more room now on the driver side of the engine without the old clunky steering box there.

All and all, it was a great mod, and a super way of getting this car to have power steering.

If I did not already have all new stuff under my 69, I would already be tearing it down for one as well. I think I am going to wait for my 69 unit to start leaking, etc, then upgrade to the rack system.




[Modified by 69Myway, 5:29 AM 6/1/2003]

 

Hey man, do I know the fellow with the '71?? I like to meet him sometime...
see you again too for that matter, maybe some time the 3 of us could gather and compare notes...wouldn't mind finishing my install on that rack before we meet though....

GENE

 

Gene,

I doubt you know this guy...Andy Hall. He is new to the Vette scene.

In fact, the car is at my house right now, and Andy will be coming over to get it around 11:00 or so. You might want to buzz over today if you want to get a close look at it.

Do you remember how to get to my house?

This afternoon, I am heading over to Argyle to help a fellow pull the body off the frame on his 1970 big block project car...Wanna help?

I will be at church this morning, but leave me a message 298-3017 and I will call you back when I get home.

Otherwise, this 71 with the Steeroids is going back across the River, and I don't think any of us will see it until maybe the Vettes at the Village show on June 14.