The Toyo conversion has been used for years in the 53-56 F100's....I used the same setup with my own custom mounting bracket on a 64 F100 straight axle 460 Lincoln powered truck. It works flawlessly.
I plan on doing the conversion in my 54-3100 and have a couple thoughts on finishing it up. First of all, the box mount fabrication is basically angle iron and matches the angle of the column.
Secondly, I've seen (and have a couple pics) of a GM application in my webshots. However, this builder just reused the Toyo pitman arm and bent it to fit. I've cut the Toyo splines off and welded them into 1/2" flat stock (pix) on the F100's and plan on increasing the pitman arm length to duplicate the stock pitman arm. This would let me use the stock drag link, eliminate bending up the dr. side hub-mounted steering bracket, and keep the drag link horizontal. This should eliminate any bumpsteer. This may have an effect on the number of turns lock-to-lock with the Toyota box but hasn't had an adverse effect on it's function in the F100's.
As for the rag joint...I prefer it over the pricey Borgeson joints. The RWD GM pass cars from the 80's use a joint that is splined to fit the Toyo box and can be mated to your GM column.
I've used the GM tilt/telescoping columns and find them troublesome to shorten. I plan on using my stock shortened column. Good luck with your Firebird unit.
I've used the Saginaw pump, cutting off the pump fitting from the Toyo high pressure hose, and adding an SAE fitting and reflaring. This will keep you from having to spring for a new high pressure hose. The full-sized Bronco's have a good P/S cooler loop...plenty of tubing so you can bend and mount it in the return circuit and mount it on the cross member.
Please feel free to contact me directly as I have coached a number of builders through the process. I'm by no means an expert, but I have done the R&D, am aware of the common mistakes and am more than willing to share info. Hope this helps you get started on your conversion.
Dave
