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| | | | Joined: Jan 2015 Posts: 208 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Jan 2015 Posts: 208 | Has anyone seen or attempted installing a rack and pinion power steering system on a 1-ton? I have seen the kits for the 3100's but as usual not much on the big boy side. | | | | | Joined: May 2006 Posts: 8,351 'Bolter | | 'Bolter Joined: May 2006 Posts: 8,351 | I would only suggest using rack and pinion if you're doing an IFS swap. The steering shaft to an axle mounted rack is shakey at best, plus you would be adding about another 90+ pounds of unsprung weight to an already heavy axle assembly, leading to ride and handling issues.
Bill Burmeister
| | | | | Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 . | | . Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 | While rack and pinion on a straight axle has been done in one fashion or another I too don't like the idea.
There is or was recently a setup sold/used on some new semi trucks, be curious how that worked out in real life? | | | | | Joined: Jan 2015 Posts: 208 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Jan 2015 Posts: 208 | I agree with both of you, it looks to be shakey at best. I was just curious if it had been done "successfully" on a 1-ton AD. I have been looking at possibly putting a V8 in my truck and was looking at the different options for steering. Im not totally sold on the adding the newer gearbox to the outside of the frame and replacing the steering column just yet and dont want the old column to be sitting off center either. I want to make it as safe and durable as possible. | | | | | Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 . | | . Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 | You can cut off the original column, install a bearing, and still use it. No change at all in the cab. | | | | | Joined: Jan 2015 Posts: 208 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Jan 2015 Posts: 208 | Grigg, is there anything out there as far as instructions on how to do that? I was looking at possibly using the 68-69 steering column but would like to keep it as original looking as possible.
| | | | | Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 . | | . Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 | I haven't seen instructions, but the lower bearing to fit is available from some of the usual restoration suppliers.
Pretty much just remove the wheel, measure how much the stem sticks out so you can replicate that measurement.
Then cut off the column from the box but extra long. Then figure out how long you want it and trim the tube to length. Install bearing and slip the center shaft back in as previously measured.
Now depending on which telescopic shaft you use adjust length and machine the end to suit.
Still need to make a bracket to clamp on bottom of column and bolt to the floor. | | |
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