Here is the system Fred ("rfs56trk") is talking about from
ABS Power Brake in Orange, CA.
www.59apache.com/bigwheel.html and
www.59apache.com/upgrades.html I was very much considering the power-assist unit from
Classic Performance Products in Anaheim, CA before I decided to go with this setup. After hearing from others about the short-comings of the power-assist system, I went ahead and took a look at an installation of this system completed by
ABS Power Brake in a 1957 Chevrolet at their shop and I was sold.
Once I drove the truck with the new power steering system, I became a fan of these Toyota steering boxes. It feels good and looks "right" for this truck. I went with an original style generator-driven power steering pump to make the whole thing look as close to stock as I could. The steering box is driven very good from this pump and I would imagine a later year GM pump would work very well too.
Although I traded some slight stock variations for an improved steering setup, I was still able to keep my stock steering column and steering wheel. with the help of the use of a
Borgeson Needle Bearing U-Joint.
I have seen one factory 1959 power steering system up close in a truck and I was impressed. It was fellow Stovebolter
Bill Samuelson\'s sweet 1959 Fleetside . I had the opportunity to buy one from
Authentic Automotive in Mesquite, Texas. However, at $1,500 I just couldn't justify the added costs (even with my sincere desire to remain as close to stock as I could). After seeing the factory setup in Bill's '59, as cool as it was, I still think I made the right choice for me and my truck.
I hope that helps!
