Rack & Pinion with 351w in a 65-66 car?

65coupe408w · 01-22-2013, 03:26 PM

Hi Everyone,

So I have a dilemah. just got my 408w powered fastback back on the road.During the build I put completely fresh OEM power steering in the car, and upgraded to the borgeson pump. I revalved the pump to operate at stock psi, however my steering is just too light. I dont feel like I have any connection to the road through the steering wheel even with my 225 zr17 tires up front.

I am looking to convert to manual Rack and Pinion, however I am not sure if this is possible with a 351w based motor in a 65 car. Has anyone done this? Any input is greatly appreciated!

65coupe408w · 01-22-2013, 04:27 PM

I forgot to add...I am running 1 3/4 primaries on my Hooker Super Comp Long Tubes. I know that its a slim chance but I would love rack and pinion!

ajzride · 01-22-2013, 05:09 PM

The unisteer fits almost any headers. I hear TCP fits well too. You can call the vendor and they will be able to tell you if it fits.

65coupe408w · 01-22-2013, 05:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ajzride

The unisteer fits almost any headers. I hear TCP fits well too. You can call the vendor and they will be able to tell you if it fits.

Thanks...I really like the look of the TCP...although a bit expensive. I figure selling my entire stock PS setup with borgeson pump has to offset some of the cost though.

I will give TCP & Unisteer a call....

If anyone else has actually done this already I would really like to hear how it went!

ajzride · 01-22-2013, 06:30 PM

I have the unisteer in 65 with z-bar and 351w. Plenty of clearance.

65coupe408w · 01-22-2013, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ajzride

I have the unisteer in 65 with z-bar and 351w. Plenty of clearance.

Thats great to hear! Are you runing long tube headers? I have a hydraulic clutch so I have more space than running a Z bar.

Thanks!

ajzride · 01-22-2013, 08:19 PM

Yes

slow-poke · 01-24-2013, 09:38 PM

I run the manual TCP rack with a 408W and Super Comps in a 65/66. Fits with no clearance issues. Parking requires strong arms, once moving the car is very responsive (Go-Kart like). I also have the TCP Coil Over setup.

65coupe408w · 01-25-2013, 07:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by slow-poke

I run the manual TCP rack with a 408W and Super Comps in a 65/66. Fits with no clearance issues. Parking requires strong arms, once moving the car is very responsive (Go-Kart like). I also have the TCP Coil Over setup.

Very interesting. I emailed TCP and they said it would not fit! Do you have the 1 3/4 primaries on your super comps?I am really leaning to the TCP rack if it will fit.

Do you have any pictures? especially where the UJ's connect the column and rack? This is where they said I would have an issue.

Thanks!

tx65coupe · 01-25-2013, 07:40 AM

Why not just convert it to a stock manual steering setup? Thats what I have along with some upgrades from Opentracker, and it works great.

65coupe408w · 01-25-2013, 07:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tx65coupe

Why not just convert it to a stock manual steering setup? Thats what I have along with some upgrades from Opentracker, and it works great.

Thanks for the input. I am thinking of doing this in the interim. I do have rolerized opentracker spring perches, shelby drop, negative edge kit, 620 drop springs, and QA1 adujstables up front already so the front suspension is rather compliant.

From what I have read I just need to change the center link and drivers side inner tie-rod (I have granada discs currently). Does that sound right? Also the PS box is only 4 turns lock to lock as opposed to the 5 of a regular MS box right?

Thanks for the info!

tx65coupe · 01-25-2013, 08:51 AM

Keep the quick ratio power steering box. This is what Shelby did. I have one in mine. If you don't have a roller idler arm, get one.

I don't know for sure what steering linkage components are different. What your saying sounds right.

I have Granada brakes too.

65coupe408w · 01-25-2013, 08:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tx65coupe

Keep the quick ratio power steering box. This is what Shelby did. I have one in mine. If you don't have a roller idler arm, get one.

I don't know for sure what steering linkage components are different. What your saying sounds right.

I have Granada brakes too.

Thanks! I was planning on keeping the quicker ratio box. Spending $75 for a new centerlink and inner tie road seems far more appealing than $1400 for a manual rack!

Where can I get a rollerized Idler? Thanks again!

tx65coupe · 01-25-2013, 07:24 PM

I got my roller idler arm from Opentracker.

65coupe408w · 01-25-2013, 09:07 PM

I see I can get the bearing from mustangs plus for $35 anyone done this?