Gene, after getting a couple of emails about the '08 steering from other forum members, I guess I'm not ready to take the plunge. I first need to at least drive an '08 and compare it to my '07 Z06. And this isn't easy to do out here in the sticks with no '08 Z06s around and soggy weather to prevent any real driving.

This probably isn't a huge project, but I first need to evaluate the subjective benefit of the new parts. It sounds like some other forum members have driven both cars and perhaps they are ready to take you up on your offer.

I'll be watching the forum, so maybe later.

Thanks Gene,

Ray

 

No problem Ray. I spoke with someone yesterday who sounded like he really wanted to try it. We'll see and hope for the best!

 

I guess you didnt see my reply on the last page a couple days ago gene, for some reason I cant PM you

 

Gene, I will give him a chance to try out the steering box. His has done a lot to his car and is a great Corvette guy.

 

Thanks Charlie, but Im thinking if hes got someone already lined up I'll just let them do the homework, I just wanted this whole project to get off the ground, just let me know if that guy falls through

 

Sorry, I have PM's turned off on all forums. If I used the PM system no one would ever get an answer. Please, call me tomorrow at 610.862.0550 and I'll sell it to you for the good price with free shipping.

 

I recently went back to work at Delphi Saginaw in Product Engineering where the new system was developed. I will find out next week if just the rack can be replaced and what can be expected. I'm only working three days a week so I won't have an answer before Tuesday.

 

BJK

 

+1

 

Bump

 

you rock!

 

That information could be really valuable to us Corvette owners, for sure!

 

 

I honestly think you're not going to find out more than we already know. The rack will fit. It just boils down to the software, which I can't see being the deal killer here.

 

I talked to “the Guru” today on the new system. He said there were so many changes to the software plus the hydraulic valve (new valve curve) and heavier torsion bar (which opens and closes the valve) its about impossible to predict how it would react. The bottom line is he has not driven it with the old controller so he can not honestly say how much benefit one would get by replacing the gear only. Personally, he would not spend the money to try it out until he was able drive it first and its not on his to do list.

The old gear had bearings, not bushings so no change there. The new gear does have tighter machining tolerances which helps reduce system compliance and improve feedback and precision. However the other changes to the valve, torsion bar and software are a big part of the new system. Actually, the current service gears for 2005 to 2007 are machined to the tighter tolerances so look for a gear built after July 2007. The gears will have a sticker on them with a 4 digit Julian date code followed by A, B or C for the shift. For example, 1967A would be the 196th day (July 14) of 2007, A shift.

I talked to two other guys that worked on the system. They have not driven the new gear with the old software either but they thought it may be a bit squirrelly because the valve curve is so different. They did not recommend making the change.

As far as fit, the gear will bolt in. The Intermediate shaft and hydraulic lines did not change as someone reported. There was a mid 2007 change to the hydraulic lines and they did carryover for 2008. So if anyone is willing to spend the cash to try it out, you will be the first. Sorry I couldn’t offer more help.

 

wow, lot of good info, thanks!

so where is this 'valve' you speak of? is it in the PS pump? so for best results you would need the rack/pump/controller?

thanks for the footwork

 

You need both the rack and controller. The valve is in the gear and controlled by the pinion (input) shaft. The valve opens with steering wheel input and directs hydraulic pressure from the pump to the piston on the rack. How much it opens and when it opens (valve curve) is new. The valve is also connected to a new larger torsion bar. The t-bar gives some resistance before the valve opens. You have to twist the torsion bar before the valve opens. Now with Magnasteer, the resistance to open the valve can be further controlled by software. There is a large magnet around the valve body. It all works together so after talking with these guys, I’m of the opinion that software is a huge part of the new system.

 

 

Given all the new info ... is somebody still going to try installing the new rack only (no software) ??

-dj

 

Might be a project for the Holidays!

Hint, hint.....