Powersteering assist

[72bigred]

Hi all, just had a question about the old steering assist units. The last truck I built I did the conversion and it seemed to work out fine. I picked up another project and in a box full of stuff in the back I found what appears to be a complete center link unit with the power assist feature. I would assume it needs to be rebuilt and trying to decide if I should use it or just use the conversion kit on this one also.

They are kind of unique, I do not see a lot of trucks with the set up. Just hate to junk something of this nature over a "conversion" since I do have it. Just lookin for opinions on if I should rebuild it and use it or just toss it and go with the conversion. Truck is to far gone to go all orig but worth bringing back so mods do not bother me.

Thanks in advance.

[Captainfab]

Long time no see!

While the power assist steering does work, it just is not as responsive as the integral power steering box in my experience. I'm sure the valve will need to be rebuilt, and then the hoses to the hydraulic cylinder probably should be replaced or rebuilt with new hose. Also as a FYI, the valve is the same one used on the Corvette's up into the late '70's or early 80's.

[72bigred]

Thanks Capt, maybe I should just do the conversion again and put this up for sale for someone that wants the orig. This truck wont be worth having such a rare orig part. This is the first one I have seen in person, very interesting tech for the day.

[oldusafmsgt]

Convert to a modern power steering box, with an adapter from Captain Fab. The old power assist linkage system is only good for a factory correct restoration, or the junk pile.