Hi, Folks,
I've been gone for a while, but I do have news regarding installing linkage-type power steering on a late '50s Apache pickup. Some time back, I'd mentioned that I planned to install power steering on my truck. I'd learned that the GM PS for this era was the same type as used on the C-2 and C-3 Corvettes (valve-body and power ram). I took the linkage-type PS stuff off my old wrecked '79 Corvette and adapted it to fit my Apache. Overall, it was a pain-in-the-butt, BUT it was also well worth the effort. I didn't have to remove the stock steering at all. I grafted the 'Vette pitman-arm to the stock truck pitman-arm, adapted the 'Vette tie-rod to take a one-ton Dodge tie-rod end to create an adjustable drag-link, made a bracket to attach the power ram to the solid axle, and had high-pressure hoses made up to fit. When I'd finished, the ol' rig steered smooth and easy as the old Corvette. And it ended up with only four turns, lock-to-lock. I took photos in case anyone is interested, and 'Vette PS components are still readily available. I don't know how to do a 'How-To' section on this site.
Regards,
Apache Kid
