The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop Outside the frame steering box

Hi all,

I just picked up a 52 5 window. Very solid, but it has a front cross member from what I'm not sure! It has a steering box on the outside of the frame. Is this even workable? The angle that it would need to hook up with the steering column seems excessive. Anyone using an outside the frame steering box?

It's one way to make room for a V8 exhaust manifold. It makes the steering column look a little Rube Goldberg, though, and gets the steering gear way off center point unless an adjustable length drag link is also fabricated.
Jerry

on my 59 Suburban, mine was outside, but way up front. The issue with that is, the front of the tire hits the drag link when turning sharp to the Right.

The cross member and steering are from a 64 or newer Chevy pickup. If it has a 5 lug bolt pattern then it is 71 or newer. Can't tell about the quality of the steering gear box mount but the position is good; the pitman arm and idler arm hold the tie rod parallel to the horizontal center line of the cross member and the steering rods are not at a severe angle. Can't tell if the ifs if in square and straight or if the anti dive angle is correct but if everything clears wheel/tire wise it should work. A couple of U-joints and (maybe) an intermediate shaft in the steering will keep the steering wheel in position and square.

Anyone using an outside the frame steering box?


Yes. There are quite a few of us using outside the frame steering boxes on AD's. I have one on my panel running a V8. I have had no problems with it.
I understand you may have some "odd" cross members or other stuff so not sure about your application. I'm using a mid 70's pickup Saginaw steering box.
...if interested pics are in my photobucket.

Thanks guys! Makes me feel better. I was thinking maybe having to take it all out and go Mustang II. I'm thinking it's a front cross member from a truck also. Has five lug pattern. I think its 5 x 4.75. Ten bolt rear matching bolt pattern.

Now a quick question. If this is from a truck can I get the front end lowered enough for that "lowered look?" It sits pretty high now with no engine, front bumper is about 15" from the bottom of the bumper to the ground.

I can't answer that question but I know some guys have removed a leaf or two of the springs. Either to lower it, or to make it ride smoother, perhaps both.
I'm sure the tribal elders will chime in soon. Right now they are all taking the little ladies out for the weekend. Hang tight.

Nostalgia Sids Inc has your answer. Dropped spindles or complete axle assys.