My Power Steering Conversion Experience

[LSUMurse]

I converted my '68 C10 from manual to power steering. This is what I did and my thoughts on the subject.

I initially took a complete setup from an '81 C10. Unbeknownst to me, the brackets certainly did not work. So, I searched the board for options and found this bracket from Jegs(picture #1): http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS+Performan...60702/10002/-1

I then bought a three groove crank pulley. It was the type with the "add-a-pulley" for the third pulley. This was fortunate because I had to use a washer one each mounting bolt between the two groove and the add-a-pulley to space out the third pulley just a bit for better alignment with the pump pulley (pic #2).

Before installing, I noticed that the back of the pump did not have a proper bolt for mounting to the Jegs bracket, at the top. Back to the junkyard and I got a pump off of a '76. This older pump used a slightly different style of end on the high pressure hose and would not accept the '81 hose properly. This was remedied by removing the outlet for the high pressure hose from the '81 pump and replacing the one on the '76 with it. This made the pump and gear compatible.

I knew I was going to need to notch the bumper bracket to get the bigger power steering gear to fit, but I was surprised by how much I needed to cut (pic #3). I actually had to install and remove the gear four or five times before I removed enough. I figure you can always cut more off but adding it back is difficult.

I was able to keep the original routing of the fan, alternator and crank belt by adjusting the pump all the way out to the end of the adjustment (pic #4). I used a belt from Advanced Auto (part number L437) which is a 37" belt. It is at the extreme of the adjustment and may become problematic as the belt ages and stretches a little.

Overall, the conversion was fairly easy. It took me 6 hours, but would probably take most half that time (I have to work in the driveway and all the tools, etc. are behind the house in the shed). The steering now is so easy, it almost feels dangerous. I am really happy with this conversion and recommend it to everyone.